What is the primary function of rods in the human eye?

The primary function of rods in the human eye is indeed related to peripheral vision and night vision. Rods are photoreceptor cells that are highly sensitive to low light levels, making them crucial for seeing in dim conditions, such as during nighttime or in poorly lit environments. They do not detect color, which is why vision in low light tends to be grayscale.

Additionally, rods are distributed mainly in the peripheral regions of the retina, allowing them to contribute significantly to peripheral vision. This is important for detecting movement and providing a broad field of vision in low-light situations. In contrast, other photoreceptors known as cones are responsible for color vision and visual acuity in bright light, thereby explaining why rods and cones serve distinct but complementary functions in the visual system.