ciliary muscle

smooth muscle in the ciliary body of the eye that changes the shape of the lens to bring objects into focus on the retina. The ciliary muscle regulates the tension of the zonules, causing the lens to flatten (which lessens the power of the lens and allows focus of distant objects) or become more curved (which increases the power of the lens and allows focus of near objects). The action of the ciliary muscle is a large component of accommodation.

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Psychology term of the day

November 15th 2024

cittosis

n. an abnormal desire for unusual foods or nonnutritive substances. See cissa; pica.