What is the primary function of the retina in the eye?

The primary function of the retina is to process visual information through receptors. The retina is a thin layer of tissue located at the back of the eye, containing photoreceptor cells known as rods and cones. These cells are essential for converting light into electrical signals, which are then transmitted to the brain via the optic nerve. Rods are responsible for vision in low light conditions and peripheral vision, while cones enable color vision and detail recognition in bright light settings.

By converting light stimuli into neural signals, the retina is critical for our ability to perceive images, colors, and movements in our environment. This processing function is fundamental to visual perception, linking the physical stimulation of light with the psychological experience of sight. Therefore, the correct answer underscores the retinal role in the complex process of vision, highlighting its significance in the overall function of the visual system.