Question

What is the volume of vitreous cavity on average? a. \(2 \mathrm{~mL}\) b. \(4 \mathrm{~mL}\) c. \(6 \mathrm{~mL}\) d. \(8 \mathrm{~mL}\) e. \(10 \mathrm{~mL}\)

Short answer

Answer: The average volume of the vitreous cavity in the human eye is approximately 4 mL.

Step-by-step solution

Information Recall

This recall-based question relies on a student's knowledge of human anatomy, specifically the vitreous cavity. This question only requires the student to know the correct option, without any mathematical calculations or manipulations needed.

Choose the Correct Option

Based on the knowledge of human anatomy and the study of eye physiology, choose the best answer from the provided options. The average volume of the vitreous cavity is b. \(4 \mathrm{~mL}\).

Key concepts

Vitreous Cavity

The vitreous cavity is an essential part of the human eye. It refers to the large space located between the lens and the retina. This cavity is filled with a clear, gel-like substance known as the vitreous humor. The primary function of the vitreous cavity is to help maintain the eye's round shape, support the retina by holding it in place, and allow light to pass through to the retina for image processing.

It's important to note that the vitreous cavity is not just an empty space. The vitreous humor plays a critical role in eye health. It is mainly composed of water, but it also contains a network of collagen fibers and hyaluronic acid.

• Collagen fibers provide structural support, maintaining the shape and integrity of the eye.
• Hyaluronic acid gives the vitreous its viscous and gel-like consistency.

This part of the eye develops during fetal life and doesn't regenerate, unlike other bodily fluids. Therefore, any changes or issues with the vitreous cavity, such as detachments, can have significant impacts on vision.

Eye Physiology

Understanding eye physiology is crucial to comprehending how the vitreous cavity fits into the larger picture of how the eye works. The eye is a remarkable organ composed of various components working together to capture and process visual information. Light first passes through the cornea, then the aqueous humor, lens, and finally, through the vitreous humor before reaching the retina.

The retina, situated at the back of the eye, is where light is converted into neural signals. These signals are sent to the brain via the optic nerve, allowing us to perceive images. The integrity and clarity of the vitreous humor ensure that light can travel unabated to the retina, maintaining optimal vision.

The eye's physiology is intricately designed:

• The cornea and lens focus light onto the retina.
• The pupil regulates the amount of light entering the eye.
• The optic nerve transmits visual data to the brain.

The vitreous cavity, although seemingly passive, holds a pivotal role in maintaining clear visual pathways and overall ocular health.

Volume Measurement

Volume measurement of the vitreous cavity is an interesting aspect of eye anatomy, primarily because it highlights the precision of human physiology. On average, the volume of the vitreous cavity is around 4 mL, which is quite small compared to the body's other cavities.

This measurement is crucial for several reasons:

• It aids in the diagnosis of certain eye conditions, as variations from the average volume can indicate abnormalities, such as swelling or shrinkage of the cavity.
• Understanding the volume helps in surgical procedures, such as vitrectomy, where the vitreal gel is removed and replaced.

Despite its modest size, accurately knowing the volume of the vitreous cavity is vital for both researchers and healthcare professionals. It helps them ensure proper eye function and informs the treatment plans for various ocular conditions.