when i go into my dark basement, why can i see objects better if i dont look directly at them?

Answer 1

The human eye has 'rod' cells and 'cone' cells on the retina, which is the sensory layer at the back of the eye. Rod cells and cone cells are distributed evenly throughout the retina except for the fovea, which is a small area on the back of the eye directly opposite the pupil. At the fovea, there are only cone cells. This is an important thing to know because the 'cone' cells are more proficient at color detection, whereas 'rod' cells are better for low light and detecting movement. Therefore, when trying to see in low light, try not to look directly at the places you are trying to see. By using your peripheral vision you are using more rod cells, which work much better in low light. This takes a great deal of practice for most people.

Answer 2

There are two types of receptors in your eyes - rods and cones. Rods are much more sensitive to light than cones, but don't detect colour. There is a higher concentration of cones in the "fovea" - that's the bit where most of your vision is concentrated which leaves space for fewer rods. In the dark basement there isn't enough light for the cones to function, but enough for the rods to work.

Here's quite a nice link:

http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/vision/rodcone.html

Answer 3

Your retina contains rods and cones. The cones are better receptors during the day. They also percieve colors.
The rods provide vision at night. However, they are not as sensitive as cones. Off-center viewing is better at night.