What is the primary function of the lens in the eye?

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The primary function of the lens in the eye is to focus light on the retina. When light enters the eye, it first passes through the cornea, and then through the lens. The lens adjusts its curvature to help accurately focus light rays on the retina, which is sensitive to light and converts it into neural signals for the brain to interpret as images. This focusing capability is critical for clear vision, allowing us to see both near and distant objects.

The lens works in conjunction with the cornea, which provides the majority of the eye's optical power, but the fine-tuning and adjustment for focusing at different distances is predominantly the role of the lens. This ability to change shape is called accommodation and is essential for distinguishing objects that are close up versus those that are further away.

The other options represent functions unrelated to the primary role of the lens. Producing tears is the sole function of the lacrimal glands, protecting the eye largely involves the eyelids and eyelashes, and providing nutrients is a role associated with the blood supply to the eye rather than the lens itself.

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