Module 3 Discussion

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Module 3 Discussion

The visual system enables an organism to observe its surroundings. It this by providing sensitivity to electromagnetic waves (EM). However, the EM waves referred to are those of the visual range, which is, extending from 300nm to 800nm. Observations recorded may regard food sources, dangers or even potential mates. The visual system constitutes various elements in different organisms that enable the aforementioned observations. For lower organisms, the structures may be as simple as a collection of photosensitive cells. In higher organisms, fully-fledged camera eyes with various types of photosensitive cells are present. In humans, the system consists of the eye, optic nerve, visual cortex and several other parts.

The visual system is very important to the various organisms. This is because it serves a number of critical functions. For instance, it enables people to detect danger in the environment. If sources of danger approach, the system warns the user in advance, thus, ensuring safety. The visual system enables us to orient ourselves to the environment. This is achieved by providing the brain with an image of how things feel. The visual system is crucial for the survival of predatory organisms. It enables them to identify potential nutrition sources by allowing them to track movements in their environments. The visual systems of some organisms enable communication in some ways. For humans, it enables the exchange of emotional information. For instance, tears from one’s eyes provide a sense of sadness to another party.

Because of the different visual structures, organisms possess various advantages and disadvantages associated with their sight. Humans are not an exception to this phenomenon. As a result, not all details in the environment are observable. Snakes for instance have the ability to observe thermal changes in the environment via infrared. Polarization is another property of EM radiation. However, insects and some cephalopods are the only organisms that can observe polarization of light. Some organisms, for example, bees, are able to observe UV radiation. This is a great disadvantage to humans as UV radiation.

Works Cited

Carlson, Neil R. “Physiology of Behaviour.” Harlow: Pearson/Education, 2012. Print.