What role does the retina play in vision?

The retina plays a crucial role in vision by converting light into neural signals. This process is fundamental to how we perceive the world around us. When light enters the eye, it passes through the lens and is focused onto the retina, which is a thin layer of tissue at the back of the eye. The retina contains photoreceptor cells, known as rods and cones, that detect light and convert it into electrical impulses. These impulses are then transmitted through the optic nerve to the brain, where they are interpreted as visual images.

This transformation from light into neural signals is essential for vision, as it allows our brains to process various aspects of what we see, including color, brightness, and movement. The ability of the retina to perform this function directly correlates to our overall visual acuity and perception. Although the other options describe various anatomical features and functions related to the eye, they do not capture the primary function of the retina in the visual process.