What is the White Part of the Eye Called?

As one of the first visible features of the eye, the white part of the eye, or sclera, plays a role in eye anatomy and vision. It is an important organelle of the eye, and understanding its names and functions is key to appreciating how eyesight works.

Sclera: Its Name and Structure

The sclera is many people’s first encounter with eye parts and can be intimidating because of its size and prominent face location. The sclera is a large and dense fibrous connective tissue layer that forms the outer surface of the eyeball. It inhibits further tissue damage, keeping it securely in place. The name itself is derived from the Greek word “skleros,” meaning hard.

The sclera is not totally white, as its name would suggest. It has a slightly off-white hue or grayish-yellow color. The appearance of the sclera changes to match the light levels it encounters, like bright sunlight or indoor light, which it will reflect differently.

Functions and Benefits of the Sclera

The primary benefit of the sclera is structural protection and security. Its dense collagen fibers help keep the eye securely in its orbit and allows it to maintain its natural shape. The sclera is also impervious to many harmful agents in the environment, giving it a major protection function.

The sclera also allows for muscle attachment, movement, and positioning. Without the sclera, your eyeball could not move properly and positioning proactively would be impossible. The sclera is instrumental in the motions of the eye and maintains its healthy shape.

Finally, its shape assists in vision. The sclera’s size and shape act as an early filter, before light ever hits the retina, so that only some light will do so. This allows the eyes to distinguish objects, enabling vision. Without the sclera, sight would be obstructed and difficult.

Conclusion

The sclera is an intricate part of anatomical features and functions in the eye, allowing for vision, positioning, and protection. Its name, derived from the Greek “skleros,” literally meaning ‘hard’, is a fitting description. Its slight off-white hue aids in vision, improving the eye’s ability to differentiate objects. Understanding what the white part of the eye is called and its many uses is an important part of understanding the anatomy and function of the eye.