The Eye
The eye is a complex and fascinating organ that enables us to see and interpret visual information from the world around us.
Main Structures
Cornea: Transparent outer layer, that refracts light.
Iris: Colored part, controls pupil size, regulates light entry.
Pupil: Opening in the iris, allows light to enter.
Lens: Flexible, changes shape to focus light.
Retina: Innermost layer, contains photoreceptors (rods and cones).
Macula: Specialized area in the retina, responsible for central vision.
Optic Nerve: Transmits visual information to the brain.
Functions
Light Refraction: The cornea and lens focus light onto the retina.
Image Formation: Light is converted into electrical signals by photoreceptors.
Visual Processing: Signals are transmitted to the brain, and interpreted as visual information.
Eye Movement: Muscles control eye movement, allowing us to focus on different objects.
Types of Vision
Central Vision: Clear, sharp vision, courtesy of the macula.
Peripheral Vision: Wider field of view, less detailed.
Colour Vision: Ability to see colours, thanks to cones in the retina.
Night Vision: Enhanced vision in low light, due to rods in the retina.
Interesting Facts
- The eye can distinguish between 10 million different colors!
- The eye can process 36,000 bits of information every hour!
- The eye blinks around 17 times per minute!
- The eye can see objects clearly at a distance of up to 100 meters!
- The eye is the only part of the human body that can function at 100% capacity at any time, without rest!