The Eye

Conjuctiva

A clear membrane that covers the white of the eye and the inside of the eyelids; it lubricates the eye and provides protection from external irritants

Cornea

Transparent, curved layer at the front of the eye that refracts light as it enters the eye

Sclera

The strong outer wall of the eyeball that helps to keep the eye in shape and provides a place of attachment for the muscles that move the eye

Pupil

Circular opening in the centre of the iris that allows light to enter the eye

Iris

Controls how much light enters the pupil

Lens

Transparent disc that can change shape to focus light onto the retina

Ciliary muscle

A ring of muscle that contracts and relaxes to change the shape of the lens

Suspensory ligaments

Ligaments that connect the ciliary muscle to the lens

Retina

Contains receptor cells sensible to light

Fovea

Region of the retina that contains densely packed cones (allows eyes to see in good detail and colour)

Optic nerve

Carries impulses between the eye and the brain

Blind spot

The point at which the optic nerve leaves the eye, where there are no light receptor cells