Structure and Function of the Eye

Vocabulary flashcards covering the anatomy, photoreceptor cells, and vision features of the human eye based on the lecture notes.

Retina

converts light into electrical signals

Cones cells

Receptor cells in the retina used to capture colour light and work in fine details

sclera

tough strong outer layer which maintains internal parts

Rod cells

Receptor cells in the retina which help see in the dark/dim light

suspensory ligaments

holds lens in place, and connects the lens to the ciliary muscles

Ciliary muscle

A muscle which controls the thickness of lens focusing

Choroid

Black layer prevents light bouncing and reflecting inside the eye which can cause a blurry image

Vitreous humour

Transparent jelly, and gives the eyeball shape

Iris

controls the amount of light that enters the eye by using its muscle

Conjunctiva

protects the cornea

Lens

focuses light in the retina using refraction

Cornea

bends light and helps focus

Fovea

only has cone cells, gives us the best vision

Short sighted

the lens is refracting too much, this is known as Myrobia

Long sighted

the lens cant refract enough light making the image go behind the retina, this is known as hyperobia

Blind spot

A small spot which contains no receptor cells

optic nerve

Carries the information to the brain

Iris reflex, small pupil

Iris reflex, Big pupil

Accommodation

The ability of the eye to change its focus from distant to near objects by altering the shape of the lens.

Accommodation, Near objects

Accommodation, Distant objects

Convex lens

The eye is a convex lens so that it can focus and point to the retina

Cerebral cortex

Responsible for our intelligence, senses and memory

Cerebellum

Responsible for our balance and muscle coordination

Hypothalamus

Responsible for regulating body temperature and sends signals to the pituitary gland

Pituitary gland

Is the master gland, it releases hormones which can stimulate growth, metabolism and other glands

Medulla

Responsible for our unconscious activities such as breathing and heart beats

How do scientist study the brain

By studying people with brin damage, using electricity, MRI scans, PET scans, CT scans