What term describes the time it takes for a performer to respond to a stimulus?

The correct term that describes the time it takes for a performer to respond to a stimulus is reaction time. This term specifically refers to the duration from when a stimulus is presented until the responder begins their reaction. It encompasses the entire process from perceiving the stimulus to initiating a voluntary movement.

Understanding this concept is crucial in sports and physical performance, as a shorter reaction time can lead to a competitive advantage. Reaction time can be influenced by factors such as the performer's alertness, experience, and the nature of the stimulus itself.

In contrast, response time and processing time have broader meanings. Response time includes not just the time taken to react but also the time it takes to execute the movement after the reaction. Processing time usually refers to the cognitive processes involved in interpreting the stimulus, which can affect one's reaction time but doesn’t define it directly. Execution time specifically relates to the physical execution of a movement after a decision has been made, not the initial response to the stimulus. Thus, reaction time precisely captures the essence of how quickly a performer can start to react to a stimulus.