The mature lens is transparent and biconvex. The centers of the lens surface are referred to as the anterior and posterior '''poles'''. The circumference of the lens is known as the '''equator'''. The center of the lens itself is referred to as the '''nucleus''', which is surrounded by the lens '''cortex'''. Attached to the lens equator are '''zonular ligaments'''; the zonules attach the lens to the ciliary body and mediate accommodation. Contraction of the ciliary body muscles relieves tension on the zonules, which in turn, allows the elastic capsule to retract; this causes the lens to become more convex. This change in the shape of the lens changes the focal length of the lens. | The mature lens is transparent and biconvex. The centers of the lens surface are referred to as the anterior and posterior '''poles'''. The circumference of the lens is known as the '''equator'''. The center of the lens itself is referred to as the '''nucleus''', which is surrounded by the lens '''cortex'''. Attached to the lens equator are '''zonular ligaments'''; the zonules attach the lens to the ciliary body and mediate accommodation. Contraction of the ciliary body muscles relieves tension on the zonules, which in turn, allows the elastic capsule to retract; this causes the lens to become more convex. This change in the shape of the lens changes the focal length of the lens. |