Learning Objectives

After studying the chapter, the student should be able to...

1.) Explain the electromagnetic radiation spectrum and it's relevance to our visual perception. Include in your explanation the specific range of human sensitivity and possible reasons why we are not sensitive to the entire spectrum.

2.) Describe the anatomical musculature of the eye and how it functions to produce eye motility. Further, discuss the importance of eye movement to the survival of various species including humans.

3.) Explain the various ways in which the eye is protected from potential harm.

4.) Describe in detail the complete anatomical structure of the human eye. Include all important components as well as the specific function of each.

5.) Describe in detail the structure, location, and function of the retina.

6.) Explain the retinal circulatory system and it's necessity to the visual system. Include in your explanation those problems that can disrupt visual circulatory system function and the subsequent ramifications of such disruption.

7.) Describe how image formation occurs in the human eye including how the eye achieves optimum image sharpness through accommodation. Include the role of light convergence and divergence in your explanation.

8.) Distinguish between hyperopia, myopia, and astigmatism including the symptoms, causes, and possible remedies of each.

9.) Discuss at length retinal photoreception. Compare and contrast the rods and cones including their specific location, anatomical, and physiological features, and the unique role each plays in visual perception.

10.) Explain the function and location of the optic disk. How does the visual system compensate for this "hole" in our visual field?

11.) Discuss the necessary role of the special light-sensitive molecules contained in the photoreceptors (photopigment) to vision.