Answer :
a) The "What" pathway and the "Where" pathway in the visual system involve different neural pathways from the retina to the cortex.
b) The "What" pathway, also known as the ventral stream, processes visual information related to object recognition, color perception, and identifying visual details. The "Where" pathway, also known as the dorsal stream, is responsible for processing spatial information, motion perception, and guiding visual attention and action.
In the visual system, the "What" pathway and the "Where" pathway serve distinct functions in processing visual information. The "What" pathway, also referred to as the ventral stream, begins with retinal input and progresses through the visual cortex, specifically the inferior temporal cortex. This pathway specializes in processing detailed visual information necessary for object recognition, color perception, and identifying specific features of visual stimuli. It allows individuals to recognize familiar objects and distinguish between different visual patterns or shapes.
Conversely, the "Where" pathway, also known as the dorsal stream, originates from retinal input and progresses through the visual cortex, particularly the parietal cortex. This pathway is responsible for processing spatial information, motion perception, and guiding visual attention and motor actions.
It enables individuals to perceive the location of objects in their environment, track moving objects, and coordinate eye movements to explore visual scenes effectively. The "Where" pathway plays a crucial role in spatial orientation, depth perception, and visually guided actions such as reaching and grasping objects.
