# Explain how the structure of the eye enables it to detect light and send information to the brain. In your answer, refer to the role of the cornea, lens, retina, and optic nerve.

> AQA A-Level Physics (7408) — 3.10.1 Physics of the Eye · Explain · 5 marks

## Mark scheme (5 marks)

1. The cornea refracts (bends) light as it enters the eye
2. The lens refracts light further / fine-tunes focusing so that light converges on the retina
3. The retina contains light-sensitive cells / receptors that detect light
4. The light-sensitive cells generate electrical impulses / signals
5. The optic nerve carries the electrical impulses to the brain

## Key terms

- [cornea](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/cornea)
- [lens](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/lens)
- [retina](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/retina)
- [optic nerve](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/optic-nerve)

## Related

- [Revision notes for AQA A-Level Physics (7408)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-how-the-structure-of-the-403f69e4) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.