Which of the following describes the sclerae?

The sclerae are best described as the whites of the eyes. This tough, outer layer of the eye helps maintain its shape and provides protection for the inner components. The sclera connects to the cornea at the front of the eye, but its primary function is structural support.

Understanding the anatomy of the eye is essential for recognizing how each part contributes to overall function and health. For example, the layer of muscle in the eye refers to structures like the ciliary body and extraocular muscles, which are involved in focusing and movement. The colored part of the eye denotes the iris, which regulates the size of the pupil and controls the amount of light entering the eye. Lastly, referring to the clear outer covering of the eye describes the cornea, which plays a crucial role in focusing light onto the retina. Thus, identifying the sclerae specifically as the whites of the eyes reinforces the importance of anatomical precision in understanding eye health.