>> Let's review the structure and function of the parts of the vertebrate eye. The pupil is the opening that lets light into the interior of the eye. The iris is the structure that contains muscles that make the pupil larger or smaller. The muscle is the structure that contracts or relaxes to alter the shape of the lens. The ligament is a structure that puts tension on the lens, flattening it. The lens is the structure that changes shape to focus light on the retina. The retina is the location of the eye's photoreceptors. The retina is also the place where you would find rods and cones. The fovea is the place where photoreceptors are highly concentrated. The optic nerve is the structure that conducts action potentials to the brain. The blind spot is the place where the optic nerve leaves the eye. The sclera is the tough layer that forms the white of the eye. The cornea is the transparent part of the sclera that lets light into the eye. The choroid is the middle pigmented layer of the eye. The vitreous humor is a jelly-like material that helps the eye hold its shape. The aqueous humor is the liquid that helps supply nutrients to eye structures. Accumulation of this liquid can cause glaucoma.
