Eye Anatomy and Function

Cornea

The outermost lens of the eye that focuses light into the inner eye and protects it from harmful matter.

Retina

The light sensitive layer within the eye that converts images into electrical signals.

Pupil

The hole located in the iris that changes size to allow different amounts of light into the inner eye.

Iris

The colorful structure of the eye that changes the shape of the pupil to allow for different amounts of light to enter the inner eye.

Ciliary Body (muscle)

A muscle that controls the shape of the lens to better focus the light onto the retina of the inner eye.

Lens

The transparent orb within the eye that refracts light to the retina of the eye.

Optic Nerve

The nerve at the back of the eye that transports electric signals to the brain.

Sclera

White outer covering of the eye that provides protection.

Conjunctiva

Outermost layer of the sclera and inner eyelid that provides lubrication

Vitreous humor

Watery liquid inside the posterior chamber of the eye that helps maintain pressure and shape.

Aqueous humor

Watery liquid inside the anterior chamber of the eye that helps maintain pressure and shape.

Optic disk

Connection of the optic nerve and retina, also where the blood vessels enter eye.

Tapetum

Blue reflective layer behind retina (aids in night vision of some animals)

Choroid

Layer behind retina that contains blood vessels

Fovea

small central depression of retina that is the center of field of vision; high acuity