Understanding Vision and Optical Illusions

A set of flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts related to the anatomy and physiology of vision, as well as optical illusions.

Optical Illusion

A visual phenomenon that tricks the brain into perceiving something that is not present or alters perception of reality.

Sensation vs. Perception

Sensation is the process of receiving stimuli from the environment, while perception is how the brain interprets these stimuli.

Photoreceptors

Cells in the retina, such as rods and cones, that convert light energy into nerve impulses.

Rods

Photoreceptors that detect light intensity, enabling black and white vision, primarily responsible for peripheral vision.

Cones

Photoreceptors that detect color and fine detail, functioning best in bright light conditions.

Afterimage

An image that continues to appear in one’s vision after the exposure to the original image has ended.

Electromagnetic Radiation

Energy that travels through space in the form of waves, of which visible light is a small part.

Cerebral Cortex

The part of the brain involved in various higher functions, including processing sensory information.

Iris

The colored part of the eye that helps control the diameter of the pupil and regulates the amount of light entering the eye.

Pupil

The opening in the iris that allows light to enter the eye.

Globe Luxation

A condition where the eyeball dislocates from its normal position, often requiring medical attention.

Cornea

The transparent front part of the eye that helps to focus light.

Vascular Layer

The middle layer of the eyeball wall, which includes the choroid, ciliary body, and iris.

Retina

The innermost layer of the eye that contains photoreceptors and converts light into electrical signals.

Bipolar Neurons

Type of neuron in the retina that connects photoreceptors to ganglion neurons.

Ganglion Neurons

Neurons in the retina that send visual information from photoreceptors to the brain via the optic nerve.