What is the term for a downward turning of the eye?

The correct term for a downward turning of the eye is "hypotropia." This condition refers specifically to a type of strabismus where one eye is misaligned and positioned lower than the other eye when looking straight ahead. Hypotropia is important to recognize in an optical context, as it can affect visual acuity and depth perception, leading to issues in visual development if left unaddressed.

In contrast, the other terms describe different eye conditions: Hyperopia is a refractive error where distant objects are seen more clearly than nearby ones, Myopia is when close objects appear clear while distant ones do not, and Ametropia is a broader term that encompasses any refractive error in the eye, indicating that the eye does not focus light correctly. Understanding the precise meanings of these terms and their implications for eye health is crucial for effective optometry practice.