What function does the optic nerve serve?

The optic nerve plays a crucial role in vision by transmitting electrical impulses from the retina, where light is converted into neural signals, to the brain. Once the retina detects light and creates these signals, the optic nerve carries the information to the visual cortex of the brain, where it is processed to form the images we see. This transmission is essential for interpreting visual stimuli, allowing us to perceive our environment.

Other options address functions related to vision but do not accurately describe the role of the optic nerve. For example, filtering light before it hits the retina is a function carried out by structures like the cornea and lens, which help focus light. Regulating the amount of light entering the eye is managed by the iris, which adjusts the size of the pupil. Supporting the shape of the eyeball is primarily the responsibility of the sclera and the vitreous humor. Therefore, the most accurate description of the optic nerve's function is its role in transporting visual information from the eye to the brain.