Question

What is the process by which the thickness of the lens is changed in order to focus light properly?

Short answer

The process by which the thickness of the lens is changed in order to focus light properly is called accommodation.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the eye's function

The eye works much like a camera. When light enters the eye, it is refracted, or bent, by the cornea. From there, it moves onto the lens, which adjusts its thickness as necessary to further focus the light onto the back of the eye, specifically, the retina.

The role of the lens

The lens of the eye plays a crucial role in focusing light. It changes its thickness via a process called accommodation. This change in thickness allows the lens to refine and adjust the pathway of the incoming light, making the image clear and focused.

The process of accommodation

Accommodation is the process by which the thickness of the lens is altered. It is controlled by the circular ciliary muscle that encircles the lens. When this muscle contracts, it compresses the lens, making it fatter (improving near focus). When it relaxes, the lens becomes thinner (improving far focus).