Which of the following is the correct direction for aqueous humor flow?

The correct direction for the flow of aqueous humor follows a specific pathway that is essential for maintaining intraocular pressure and providing nutrients to the avascular structures of the eye. Aqueous humor is produced by the ciliary body, which is located behind the iris. From there, it flows into the anterior chamber of the eye, the space between the cornea and the iris.

After filling the anterior chamber, the aqueous humor drains through the trabecular meshwork, a spongy tissue that is part of the drainage system. Finally, it exits the eye through the canal of Schlemm, which is a circular vessel that collects aqueous humor and directs it into the bloodstream.

This sequence—starting from the ciliary body, moving into the anterior chamber, then through the trabecular meshwork, and finally exiting via the canal of Schlemm—accurately describes the normal flow of aqueous humor in the eye. Maintaining this flow is crucial for eye health, as any disruption could lead to elevated intraocular pressure and contribute to conditions such as glaucoma.