What is the main function of the rods in the eye?

• A. To focus light onto the retina
• B. To detect color and fine detail
• C. To perceive light and dark, aiding in night vision
• D. To regulate the amount of light entering the eye

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Begin by understanding the structure of the eye, specifically the retina, which contains photoreceptor cells known as rods and cones.
2. Recognize that rods are one type of photoreceptor cell in the retina, primarily responsible for vision in low light conditions.
3. Understand that rods are highly sensitive to light and are more numerous than cones, but they do not detect color. Instead, they help perceive shades of light and dark.
4. Learn that rods are distributed throughout the retina but are absent in the fovea, which is the area responsible for sharp central vision.
5. Conclude that the main function of rods is to aid in night vision by perceiving light and dark, allowing us to see in dimly lit environments.