Learn on PengiAmplify Science (California) Grade 4Chapter 4: How could more light at night make it hard for a Tokay gecko to see its prey?

Sesson 2: Interference (Light Pollution)

Key Idea.

Section 1

Excess Light Overwhelms Animal Senses

Key Idea

An animal's environment can change in ways that affect its senses. Extra light from cities and buildings creates light pollution in areas that are normally dark at night. This change can get in the way of an animal's ability to survive.

This new light acts as a form of environmental interference. For animals with very sensitive eyes, the bright light can overwhelm their specialized sense receptors. When these receptors receive too much information, the brain cannot form a clear image of the world.

Lesson overview

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Section 1

Excess Light Overwhelms Animal Senses

Key Idea

An animal's environment can change in ways that affect its senses. Extra light from cities and buildings creates light pollution in areas that are normally dark at night. This change can get in the way of an animal's ability to survive.

This new light acts as a form of environmental interference. For animals with very sensitive eyes, the bright light can overwhelm their specialized sense receptors. When these receptors receive too much information, the brain cannot form a clear image of the world.