What is the function of the zonules?

What is the function of the zonules?

• A. Provide nutrients to lens
• B. Help maintain lens transparency
• C. Transmit tension for accommodation
• D. Support the iris

Answer: (C)

Zonules are the suspensory ligaments of the lens, connecting the lens capsule to the ciliary body. Their main job is to transmit the forces produced by the ciliary muscle to the lens, shaping it for accommodation. When the ciliary muscle contracts, the lens becomes more curved because the zonular tension is released, boosting refractive power for near vision. When the muscle relaxes, the zonules become taut and the lens flattens for distance vision. So their crucial role is transmitting tension to the lens to adjust its shape during accommodation. They do not supply nutrients to the lens, directly maintain lens transparency, or support the iris.

Zonules are the suspensory ligaments of the lens, connecting the lens capsule to the ciliary body. Their main job is to transmit the forces produced by the ciliary muscle to the lens, shaping it for accommodation. When the ciliary muscle contracts, the lens becomes more curved because the zonular tension is released, boosting refractive power for near vision. When the muscle relaxes, the zonules become taut and the lens flattens for distance vision. So their crucial role is transmitting tension to the lens to adjust its shape during accommodation. They do not supply nutrients to the lens, directly maintain lens transparency, or support the iris.