Which type of receptor cells are contained in the retina and are useful in low-light conditions?

• A. Hair cells
• B. Olfactory cells
• C. Rods
• D. Cones

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by understanding the function of the retina in the eye. The retina is a layer of tissue at the back of the eye that contains photoreceptor cells responsible for detecting light and converting it into neural signals.
2. Step 2: Learn about the two main types of photoreceptor cells in the retina: rods and cones. Rods are specialized for vision in low-light conditions, while cones are responsible for color vision and function best in bright light.
3. Step 3: Compare the other options provided in the question. Hair cells are sensory cells found in the inner ear, responsible for detecting sound and balance. Olfactory cells are sensory cells in the nose, responsible for detecting smells. These are unrelated to vision.
4. Step 4: Focus on the key characteristic of rods. Rods are highly sensitive to dim light and are essential for night vision, whereas cones are less sensitive to light and are used for detecting colors and fine details.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the correct answer is 'Rods,' as they are the type of receptor cells in the retina that are useful in low-light conditions.