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3D films may slow brain decline
Baku, May 23, AZERTAC
Watching films in 3D exercises the brain, and improves short-term functioning in a similar way to brain-training tests, a group of scientists have claimed.
An experiment led by a neuroscientist from Goldsmiths University in London has found that people who watch video in 3D have improved cognitive skills compared to those who watch in 2D.
More than 100 people took part in an experiment where participants watched the Disney film Big Hero 6 in either standard format or RealD 3D, as well as carrying out a brain-training-style test before and after seeing a segment from the film.
The test covered memory, reaction times and cognitive function, and the results were subsequently compared.
According to the research, which was carried out in partnership with science group Thrill Laboratory, participants experienced a 23 per cent increase in cognitive processing, as well as an 11 per cent increase in reaction times.
Neuroscientist Patrick Fagan, an associate lecturer at Goldsmiths, said the results showed enough of an improvement in brain function to suggest that 3D could play a part in improving brain power in the future.
A second part of the experiment involved those watching the film being fitted with headsets that scanned brain activity, and this too showed heightened activity when watching 3D.
According to the results, participants were seven per cent more engaged with what they were watching, adding to the argument that 3D movies are more like watching real-life.