Several studies have connected brain oscillations in the alpha band (8 Hz–13 Hz) to the results of visual perception. Studies have indicated that the alpha phase, which occurs before the commencement of the stimulus, can predict the detection of the stimulus, sensory responses, and the temporal characteristics of perception. These results support the hypothesis that rhythmic sampling of visual information is reflected in alpha-band oscillations, but the underlying processes remain unknown. Two opposing theories have recently been put forth. The rhythmic perception account claims that alpha oscillations limit perceptual processing by physically increasing the intensity or amplitude of visual responses, which increases the chance of stimulus detection.
