Eye Anatomy

Lens

A clear, convex disc contained in a transparent capsule

Function of Lens

Focuses images on the retina

Cornea

A clear tissue overlying the front of the eyeball

Function of Cornea

Allows light to enter the eye and refracts the incoming light so images can be focused on the retina

Retina

Consists of photoreceptors and nerve cells

Function of Retina

Processes visual information and transmits it to the brain

Optic Nerve

A bundle of nerve fibers at the back of the eye

Function of Optic Nerve

Transmits visual signals from the retina to the brain

Choroid

A vascular layer between the retina and sclera

Function of Choroid

Provides oxygen and nutrients to the outer layers of the retina

Ciliary Body

A ring of muscle tissue connected to the lens

Function of Ciliary Body

Controls the shape of the lens and produces aqueous humor

Iris

The colored part of the eye surrounding the pupil

Function of Iris

Regulates the size of the pupil to control the amount of light entering the eye

Pupil

The dark circular opening in the center of the iris

Function of Pupil

Allows light to enter the eye and reach the retina

Vitreous (Vitreous Humor)

A clear, gel-like substance that fills the space between the lens and retina

Function of Vitreous

Maintains eye shape and allows light to pass through to the retina

Sclera

The tough, white outer layer of the eye

Function of Sclera

Protects the eye and maintains its shape