In the context of AP Psychology, which of the following best defines the retina in relation to visual stimuli?

• A. The retina is the colored part of the eye that controls the size of the pupil and regulates the amount of light entering the eye.
• B. The retina is the tough, outer protective layer of the eye that maintains its shape.
• C. The retina is the transparent structure behind the pupil that focuses light onto the back of the eye.
• D. The retina is the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye that contains photoreceptor cells and converts visual stimuli into neural signals.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the role of the retina in the visual system. The retina is a crucial part of the eye responsible for processing visual information.
2. Step 2: Identify the function of the retina as a light-sensitive layer located at the back of the eye. It contains specialized cells called photoreceptors (rods and cones) that detect light.
3. Step 3: Recognize that the retina converts the light stimuli it receives into neural signals. These signals are then transmitted to the brain via the optic nerve for visual perception.
4. Step 4: Differentiate the retina from other parts of the eye mentioned in the options, such as the iris (colored part controlling pupil size), the cornea (transparent structure focusing light), and the sclera (outer protective layer).
5. Step 5: Conclude that the best definition of the retina in relation to visual stimuli is that it is the light-sensitive layer containing photoreceptor cells that convert visual stimuli into neural signals.