Focus in on the eye!

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    Cornea: a clear dome over the iris—bends light to help the eye focus

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    Pupil: the black circular opening that lets light in

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    Iris: the coloured part—contains the muscles to contract or expand the pupil to control how much light is let in

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    Lens: behind the iris and pupil—works with the cornea to focus light correctly on the retina

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    Retina: light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye— contains special photoreceptor cells called rods and cones that turn light into electrical signals

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    Rods: help us see in dim light

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    Cones: help us see bright light, colour, and detail

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    Vitreous humor: colourless, gel-like substance in between the lens and retina—helps with vision clarity and helps protect your eye from damage by absorbing the shock if you hit your head

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    Macula: specialized area of the retina that helps the eyes see fine details

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    Optic Nerve: transmits the electrical signals to the brain where your brain “develops” them into what you see

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    Sclera: the white of your eye

Did you know icon

DID YOU KNOW? When your eye sees light, the lens transmits it upside down. Your brain receives that signal and flips it right side up. When you blink, the six muscles in the eye move faster than any other muscle in the body! Your eyes see by letting light into the eye, but this light can also be damaging.