The primary function of the cornea is to focus and control the entry of light into the eye, acting as the eye's outermost and most powerful lens.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
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Focusing Light: The cornea is responsible for approximately 65-75% of the eye's total focusing power. Its curved surface bends (refracts) light rays as they pass through it, helping to create a clear image on the retina.
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Protection: The cornea also provides a protective barrier against dust, germs, and other harmful particles.
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Clarity: The cornea's transparency is crucial for clear vision. It contains no blood vessels, which contributes to its clarity and allows light to pass through unobstructed.
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Filtering UV Light: While not its primary function, the cornea does filter out some harmful ultraviolet (UV) light.
In summary, the cornea's essential functions are to focus light and protect the eye, enabling clear vision.
