Accommodation - GCSE Biology Definition

Reviewed by: Lára Marie McIvor

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Accommodation in the context of GCSE Biology refers to the process by which the eye adjusts its focus to see objects clearly at different distances. This involves the ciliary muscles changing the shape of the lens to alter its focal length. When focusing on near objects, the ciliary muscles contract, causing the lens to become thicker and more curved, increasing its refractive power. To focus on distant objects, the ciliary muscles relax, making the lens thinner and flatter. This adjustment ensures that light is focused accurately onto the retina for clear vision across different distances.

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Lára Marie McIvor

Reviewer: Lára Marie McIvor

Expertise: Biology, Psychology & Sociology Subject Lead

Lára graduated from Oxford University in Biological Sciences and has now been a science tutor working in the UK for several years. Lára has a particular interest in the area of infectious disease and epidemiology, and enjoys creating original educational materials that develop confidence and facilitate learning.

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