The Eye - Paper 1

Question 1

Explain why the pupil gets smaller in bright light (2 marks)

Answer 1

To reduce the quantity of light which can reach the retina, to prevent it being damaged

Question 2

Describe the role of the suspensory ligaments and ciliary muscles in focusing on a near object (3 marks)

Answer 2

Ciliary muscles contract and suspensory ligaments loosen to increase the angle of refraction to ensure light focuses on the retina to form a clear image

Question 3

Name the part of the eye that controls the amount of light entering the eye (1 mark)

Answer 3

Iris

No pupil as this is controlled by the iris
It wouldn’t change size without the radial and circular muscles in the iris

Question 4

Describe what happens in the eye to allow a person to focus on a distant object (3 marks)

Answer 4

To focus on a distant object, the ciliary muscles relax and the suspensory ligaments tighten, making the lens thinner. This reduces the refraction of light so it focuses clearly on the retina