What is the sclera commonly known as?

The sclera is commonly known as the "white of the eye" because it forms a tough outer layer encasing most of the eyeball. The primary function of the sclera is to provide structure and protection to the internal components of the eye, such as the retina, choroid, and vitreous body. Its white appearance is due to its composition of dense connective tissue, which lacks pigmentation. This structural role is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the eye and supporting its overall function in vision.

The other options refer to different components of the eye. The colored part of the eye refers to the iris, which regulates the amount of light entering the eye through the pupil. Transparent tissue in the eye typically refers to the cornea, which is the clear front part of the eye that covers the iris and pupil, providing most of the eye's optical power. The part of the retina describes the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye responsible for converting light into neural signals, which are then sent to the brain. Understanding these distinctions is essential for grasping eye anatomy and function.