Which of the following best describes photopic vision?

• A. Night vision with rods only
• B. Daylight or bright light with central vision and high acuity
• C. Peripheral vision under dim light
• D. Central vision with poor color perception

Answer: (B)

Photopic vision is the type of vision used in daylight or bright light, dominated by cones in the retina. Cones are concentrated in the central retina, especially the fovea, which provides high spatial resolution and the ability to distinguish colors. That’s why the description of daylight or bright light with central vision and high acuity is the best match. In dim light, vision shifts to rods and becomes more peripheral, with lower acuity and poor color perception, which is why other descriptions don’t fit as well. Central vision in bright light also carries rich color discrimination, not poor color perception.