The cornea is a vital component of the eye, serving as a transparent, dome-shaped structure located at the front. Positioned in front of the iris and pupil, the cornea plays a crucial role in vision by focusing incoming light onto the lens and retina at the back of the eye.
Key Points about the Cornea:

1 Transparency: The cornea is composed of specialised cells and proteins that give it its transparency. This transparency allows light to pass through, reaching the retina and enabling clear vision.

2 Refractive Power: Together with the lens, the cornea assists in refracting light as it enters the eye. This process is essential for accurate light focusing onto the retina, resulting in clear vision.

3 Structure: The cornea comprises five main layers: the epithelium, Bowman’s layer, stroma, Descemet’s membrane, and endothelium. Each layer serves a specific function in maintaining the cornea’s structure and transparency.

4 Sensitivity: The cornea houses a high density of nerve endings, making it extremely sensitive to touch and foreign particles. This sensitivity triggers protective reflexes, including blinking, to safeguard the eye.

5 Protection: Acting as a protective barrier, the cornea shields the inner structures of the eye from injury, dust, and harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation.