Neural dynamics of light temperature under attentional load

Abstract

This thesis investigates the neural dynamics of light temperature under varying levels of attentional load using EEG. The study involved twenty healthy adult participants (13 males, 7 females, mean age = 22.35) who performed rapid vi-sual detection tasks under different correlated color temperatures (CCT) of light: 2000K, 6000K, and 10000K. The experimental design comprised 288 trials per participant, with tasks administered under low and high attentional loads. The results indicated significant variations in EEG time-frequency responses in the alpha (8-13 Hz) frequency band based on attentional load, CCT conditions, and hemisphere. The analysis revealed significant main effects of Load, CCT, and Hemisphere on mean ERSP values. Mean ERSP values were higher under low load conditions compared to high load conditions, indicating that increased at-tentional load enhances alpha suppression and heightens attention. Mean ERSP values were lower in the CCT conditions compared to the control condition, re-flecting greater alpha suppression in the presence of distractor. Additionally, the right hemisphere exhibited significantly lower mean ERSP values compared to the left hemisphere and the midline, indicating lateralization of alpha band activity with greater alpha suppression in the right hemisphere. Behavioral data analysis showed significant differences in response times and accuracy across conditions. Participants demonstrated faster response times under cooler CCTs (6000K and 10000K) compared to the warm colors (2000K). These findings reveal the differ-ential impacts of light temperature and attentional load on behavioral and neural activity, in which our cognitive systems respond to external stimuli.