Which region of the electromagnetic spectrum stimulates photoreceptor cells in the human retina?

• A. Ultraviolet radiation
• B. Infrared radiation
• C. Microwaves
• D. Visible light

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the function of photoreceptor cells in the human retina: Photoreceptor cells, such as rods and cones, are specialized cells in the retina that detect light and convert it into electrical signals for the brain to process as vision.
2. Learn about the electromagnetic spectrum: The electromagnetic spectrum includes various types of radiation, such as ultraviolet (UV), visible light, infrared (IR), and microwaves, each with different wavelengths and energy levels.
3. Identify the range of wavelengths that photoreceptor cells respond to: Human photoreceptor cells are stimulated by visible light, which has wavelengths ranging from approximately 400 nm (violet) to 700 nm (red). This range is suitable for vision and does not include UV, IR, or microwave radiation.
4. Understand why other regions of the spectrum do not stimulate photoreceptor cells: Ultraviolet radiation has shorter wavelengths and higher energy, which can damage cells rather than stimulate them. Infrared radiation and microwaves have longer wavelengths and lower energy, which are not absorbed by photoreceptor cells for vision.
5. Conclude that visible light is the correct answer: Visible light is the region of the electromagnetic spectrum that stimulates photoreceptor cells in the human retina, enabling humans to perceive colors and light.