Mutual influences between numerical and non-numerical quantities in comparison tasks

Humans possess a numerical intuition that allows them to manipulate large non-symbolic quantities. This ability has been broadly assessed with the help of number comparison tasks involving simultaneously displayed arrays. Many authors pointed out manipulation (or lack thereof) non-numerical features deeply impacts performance in these tasks, but specific nature this influence is not clear. study investigates interaction between and quantity judgement tasks. Adult participants performed five distinct each based on target dimension: numerosity, total area, dot size, convex hull, mean occupancy. We manipulated relation other dimensions measure their respective task performance. Results showed area hull substantially affected numerosity comparisons. The dots conversely acted as an informative dimension when had make decision or hull. Our results illustrate adults flexibly use non-target visual cues perform judgements. Overall, suggests found explicit deliberate rather than due implicit integration processes.