What role does the cornea play in vision?

The cornea plays a crucial role in vision by focusing light as it enters the eye and directing it onto the retina, which is where images are processed and sent to the brain for interpretation. The cornea is the clear, dome-shaped surface at the front of the eye and contributes to the eye's optical power. Its curvature refracts light, allowing it to converge properly on the retina to create a clear image.

This focusing power is essential for sharp vision and is the first step in the complex process of image formation. While other structures in the eye also contribute to vision, such as the lens and the retina itself, the primary function of the cornea in terms of light refraction and focus is significant and foundational to visual clarity.