What is the role of the lens in the eye?

The lens of the eye plays a crucial role in vision by focusing light rays onto the retina. This is essential for creating clear images, as the retina is where photoreceptor cells convert light into neural signals that are sent to the brain. The lens can change its shape, a process known as accommodation, allowing it to focus on objects at various distances. When light enters the eye, it passes through the cornea and the lens, which adjusts the light’s path to ensure that images are sharply focused on the retina for effective vision.

Options discussing structural support, monitoring intraocular pressure, or protection from foreign objects pertain to different functions or components of the eye. The cornea and sclera mainly provide support; the eye's internal mechanisms, such as the ciliary body, are responsible for monitoring pressure; and eyelids and eyelashes usually fulfill protective roles. These functions are important but are not related to the primary role of the lens in focusing light. Thus, focusing light rays on the retina is the specific and critical function of the lens within the visual system.