Studies in thermal sensitivity: 12. Part-whole relations in seriatim cold-mapping.

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Abstract
Seriatim cold-mapping of the same cutaneous region alternately with 2 stimulators of different sizes indicates that intensity of experience is dually detd. There is a relatively minor effect of size as such, unimportant except with small stimulators. The major influence is the square-root function[long dash]whole scores being equal to the square root of the mean of the squares of the differing part scores. Critical checks show that this square-root function holds with all magnitudes of part score differences and with all size comparisons tested. Neither the traditional "cold spot" theory, nor the thermal-conduction modification of it provides an adequate explanation of the exptl. facts. A cone, theory is proposed, in terms of which sensitivity is detd. by the conc. of minute receptors.