Definition of Pupil
Pupil: The opening of the iris. The pupil may appear to
open (dilate) and close (constrict) but it is really the iris that is
the prime mover; the pupil is merely the absence of iris. The pupil
determines how much light is let into the eye. Both pupils are
usually of equal size. If they are not, that is termed anisocoria
(from "a-", not + "iso", equal + "kore", pupil = not equal pupils).
Aside from the pupil and iris, the eye has a number of other
components. These components include the cornea, lens, retina,
macula, optic nerve and
vitreous.
The cornea is the clear front window of the eye that
transmits and focuses light into the eye.
The lens is the transparent structure inside the eye that
focuses light rays onto the retina.
The retina is the nerve layer that lines the back of the
eye, senses light and creates impulses that travel through the optic
nerve to the brain.
The macula is a small area in the retina that contains
special light-sensitive cells and allows us to see fine details
clearly.
The optic nerve is the nerve that connects the eye to the
brain and carries the impulses formed by the retina to the visual
cortex of the brain.
The vitreous humor is a clear, jelly-like substance that
fills the middle of the eye.
Source:
MedTerms™ Medical Dictionary
http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=5135
Last Editorial Review: 3/26/1998 2:28:00 PM
Drug Medical Dictionary of Terms by Letter