Herbart now calculates the remainders \(R\) for different values for a and b, and for a, b, and c, showing that when only two representations, a and b, conflict, it is impossible for \(R_b \le 0\), i.e., for it to disappear completely from awareness (SW V: 289–90).  However, according to Herbart’s calculations, when three or more representations are in play, such that \(a \gt b \gt c\), it is possible for \(R_c\) … \(\le 0\) (SW V: 289–91).[28]  This result, while perhaps obscure in its derivation, is the basis of Herbart’s discovery of the concept of the limen or “threshold” of consciousness: for if, in the opposition of representations a, b, and c, the inhibition sum S is distributed in such a way that the “remainder” of c’s vivacity is \(\le 0\), then this just means that a and b have completely dimmed or crowded out c from conscious awareness (cf. SW IV: 371, §130).