What is the primary function of cones in the human eye?

The primary function of cones in the human eye is related to color perception during daylight. Cones are specialized photoreceptor cells located in the retina, and they are highly sensitive to different wavelengths of light, allowing for the detection of various colors. There are three types of cones, each sensitive to specific ranges of wavelengths corresponding to blue, green, and red light.

This makes cones essential for tasks that require detailed and vibrant color differentiation, such as reading or identifying objects in well-lit environments. In contrast, rods, which are another type of photoreceptor, are more sensitive to low light levels and play a key role in night vision, but they do not contribute to color perception. Therefore, while cones are responsible for color vision in bright lighting, rods allow us to see in dim light, showcasing the complementary functions of these two types of photoreceptors in vision.