What is the primary function of the retina in vision?

The primary function of the retina in vision is to convert light into neural signals. The retina is a thin layer of tissue located at the back of the eye that contains photoreceptor cells—rods and cones. These cells are sensitive to light and play a crucial role in the visual process. When light enters the eye, it is focused onto the retina, and the photoreceptors detect this light.

Once the photoreceptors absorb light, they undergo a chemical change that generates electrical signals. These signals are then processed by various retinal neurons before being sent to the brain via the optic nerve. The brain interprets these signals as visual images, allowing us to see.

Without this conversion of light into neural signals, visual perception would not be possible. Hence, the retina serves as an essential intermediary in transforming light stimuli into information that the brain can understand, making it a central player in the process of vision.