OCR General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) Biology Practice Exam

Which part of the eye converts light into neural signals?

1. Cornea

2. Lens

3. Retina

4. Iris

The correct answer is: Retina

The retina is the part of the eye responsible for converting light into neural signals. It contains photoreceptor cells known as rods and cones. Rods are sensitive to low light levels and allow us to see in dim conditions, while cones are responsible for color vision and function best in bright light. When light enters the eye, it passes through the cornea and lens, which help to focus the light onto the retina. Once the light reaches the retina, the photoreceptors detect the light and initiate a biochemical process that generates electrical signals. These signals are then transmitted to the brain via the optic nerve, where they are processed into visual images. This critical function makes the retina an essential part of the visual system.