What is the main purpose of the retina?

The main purpose of the retina is to transmit visual signals to the brain. The retina is a thin layer of tissue located at the back of the eye that contains photoreceptor cells, known as rods and cones. These cells are responsible for detecting light and converting it into electrical signals. Once these signals are generated, they travel through the optic nerve to the visual areas of the brain, where they are interpreted as images. This process is crucial for vision, as it allows the brain to understand and process the visual information captured by the eye.

While other options mention important functions related to vision, they do not encompass the primary role of the retina. For instance, although the retina does absorb light, its main function is to detect and convert it into signals for transmission. Focus is primarily a function of the eye's lens, and tear production is related to the lacrimal glands, not the retina.