What is the retina responsible for in the eye?

The retina plays a crucial role in the visual process as it is responsible for receiving images that are focused by the lens of the eye. The retina is a thin layer of tissue located at the back of the eye, containing photoreceptor cells known as rods and cones. These cells convert light into electrical signals that are then transmitted to the brain via the optic nerve, allowing us to perceive images. The proper functioning of the retina is essential for clear vision, as it captures the light that enters through the pupil and lens, translating it into the visual information that our brains interpret.

In contrast, the other options present different functions that are not related to the primary role of the retina. Regulating eye pressure pertains to the function of the anterior chamber and parts of the eye that maintain intraocular pressure. Transmitting sound is a function of the auditory system, particularly the ears, not the eyes. Protecting the eye is related to structures such as eyelids and tears, which serve to shield the eye from debris and moisture, but does not involve the processing of visual information.