Structure of the eye

Question 1

What is the function of the optic nerve?

Answer 1

• Sends signals from the retina to your brain

Question 2

What is the function of the retina?

Answer 2

• Converts light that enters into your eye into electrical signals
• These electrical signals are sent to the brain through the optic nerve and this is what allows us to see images
• Photoreceptors are cells inside your retina that react to light and they change the light into an electrical signal

Question 3

What is the function of the iris?

Answer 3

• It regulates the amount of light that enters the eye
• Forms the coloured part of the eye
• Narrows or dilates the eye

Question 4

What is the function of the pupil?

Answer 4

• It is the black circle in the middle of the eye
• It expands and contracts to control how much light gets into your eye

Question 5

What is the function of the lens?

Answer 5

• It focusses the light that comes into your eye
• Sends light to the back of your eye

Question 6

What is the function of the macula?

Answer 6

• It helps you see fine details and colours
• Has a high concentration of photoreceptors

Question 7

What is the function of the conjunctiva?

Answer 7

• A clear, thin tissue which covers the sclera
• Lines the inside of your eyelids

Question 8

What is the function of the cornea?

Answer 8

• A clear layer that extends over the iris
• Made up of water and collagen

Question 9

How does AMD affect the eye?

Answer 9

• Damages the macula
• The retinal cells die and don’t reproduce
• Wet AMD: the abnormal blood cells lead blood which leads to scarring of the macula and loss of central vision

Question 10

What is peripheral vision?

Answer 10

• Peripheral vision is the side vision
• It is the ability to see things outside of your direct line of sight