Which part of the eye is primarily responsible for central vision?

The macula is the part of the eye primarily responsible for central vision. It is a small, specialized area located in the retina, specifically designed for high acuity and detailed vision. Within the macula is the fovea, which contains a high concentration of cone photoreceptor cells and is essential for tasks that require sharp vision, such as reading and recognizing faces. The fovea effectively allows us to see in fine detail, while the surrounding areas of the macula aid in color perception and broader visual tasks.

In contrast, the retina encompasses the entire light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye where images are formed, but it is the macula that is specifically geared for central vision. The lens focuses light onto the retina but does not have a role in determining visual acuity itself. Thus, while all parts mentioned contribute to vision, central vision is primarily attributed to the macula due to its unique structure and concentration of photoreceptors.