What term is used to describe the fibrous structure that protects the eye and maintains its shape?

The term used to describe the fibrous structure that protects the eye and maintains its shape is "cornea." The cornea is the transparent front part of the eye that covers the iris, pupil, and anterior chamber. It functions not only to shield the eye from external elements and potential harm but also plays a crucial role in focusing light onto the retina, which allows for clear vision.

The cornea's fibrous nature helps it maintain the eye's overall shape and provides structural support. It is essential for the integrity of the eye and contributes to the overall process of vision. The cornea is composed of layers of cells and is designed to be both protective and refractive.

Other terms listed do not pertain to the fibrous structure serving these roles. The cochlea is related to hearing, the cataract refers to a clouding of the lens of the eye that affects vision, and cilia are tiny hair-like structures involved in various bodily functions but are not related to the protective and structural characteristics of the eye.