Structures of the Eye

Structures of the Eye

• Sclera: The eye's white outer layer; provides shape and protects internal structures.
• Cornea: Clear front part of the sclera; first area to receive light; appears cloudy in preserved specimens.
• Conjunctiva: Mucous membrane covering the anterior eye; protects the cornea from damage.
• Optic Nerve: Cranial nerve II; transmits visual information from the eye to the brain, specifically the occipital lobe.
• Ciliary Body: Dark pigmented structure encircling the lens; contains muscles to adjust lens tension and produce aqueous humor.
• Lens: Biconvex structure that focuses light onto the retina; shape influences image clarity.
• Suspensory Ligaments: Fibers connecting the lens to the ciliary body; adjusting tension alters the lens shape for focusing.
• Iris: Colored part of the eye; an extension of the ciliary body that controls the pupil size.
• Choroid: Layer between the retina and sclera; appears brownish-black; reflects light in nocturnal animals for improved vision.
• Retina: Light-sensitive membrane containing photoreceptors necessary for vision; connects to the optic nerve at the optic disc.
• Tapetum Lucidum: Iridescent layer in nocturnal animals enhancing vision in low light conditions.
• Aqueous Humor: Watery fluid produced by the ciliary body; circulates in the anterior cavity; crucial for maintaining intraocular pressure.
• Vitreous Humor: Gel-like substance in the posterior cavity; provides support to the retina and helps maintain its position.
• Anterior Cavity: Fluid-filled space between the iris and cornea; contains aqueous humor.
• Posterior Chamber: Area filled with aqueous humor; located behind the iris and in front of the lens.
• Vascular Tunic (Uvea): Middle layer of the eye, consisting of the choroid, ciliary body, and iris; rich in blood vessels.
• Vitreous Chamber: Largest chamber filled with vitreous humor; located behind the lens and in front of the optic nerve.
• Pupil: Opening in the center of the iris allowing light to enter the eye; appears black due to light absorption.
• Optic Disc: Raised area on the retina where the optic nerve enters; lacks visual receptors, creating a blind spot.
• Fovea Centralis: Depressed area in the retina important for sharp vision; contains a high density of retinal cones.
• Macula Lutea: Central region of the retina around the fovea, crucial for detailed vision.

Test your knowledge on the key structures of the eye with these flashcards. Each card covers essential terms like sclera, cornea, and conjunctiva, providing definitions and context. Perfect for students studying anatomy and physiology.