Which of the following cell types in the retina is primarily responsible for detecting light and initiating visual signals?

• A. Bipolar cells
• B. Amacrine cells
• C. Ganglion cells
• D. Photoreceptor cells (rods and cones)

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the structure of the retina: The retina is a layer of tissue at the back of the eye that contains specialized cells responsible for detecting light and transmitting visual information to the brain.
2. Identify the key cell types in the retina: The retina contains several types of cells, including photoreceptor cells (rods and cones), bipolar cells, amacrine cells, and ganglion cells. Each type has a specific role in the visual process.
3. Focus on photoreceptor cells: Photoreceptor cells, which include rods and cones, are the primary cells responsible for detecting light. Rods are sensitive to low light levels and are important for night vision, while cones detect color and function best in bright light.
4. Understand the role of other retinal cells: Bipolar cells, amacrine cells, and ganglion cells are involved in processing and transmitting the signals initiated by photoreceptor cells. However, they do not directly detect light.
5. Conclude that photoreceptor cells (rods and cones) are the correct answer: These cells are the first to respond to light stimuli and initiate the visual signal that is further processed by other retinal cells and transmitted to the brain.