What type of photoreceptor cell allows us to see gray tones in dim light, and
provides our peripheral vision?
Cones
Optic disc
Bipolar cells
Rods

Rods are the unsung heroes of our night vision! These photoreceptor cells are highly sensitive to light, making them essential for seeing in dim conditions and allowing us to perceive gray tones. While they don’t contribute to color vision, they really shine when it comes to detecting motion and providing a broad field of view, especially in low-light environments.

If you’re ever out stargazing or wandering through a dark room, give a nod to your rods! They are more concentrated in the peripheral parts of the retina, which is why you often see movement and shapes out of the corner of your eye even when the light is low. So, next time you find yourself in the dark, remember it’s your trusty rods doing all the hard work!