Eye's response to electromagnetic (light) waves?

AI Thread Summary
The eye's retina, specifically the rods and cones, detects photon energy rather than the electric or magnetic components of electromagnetic (EM) waves. The interaction is best described in terms of photons, as the eye responds to the energy deposited by EM fields. The frequency of visible light causes these fields to change direction approximately 10^14 times per second. A discussion on the importance of using the correct terminology, such as "photoreceptor," highlights the complexity of understanding vision. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the quantum nature of light detection in the eye.
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It's a photon (quantum) interaction so that's the best way to describe the event, rather than in terms of waves.
 
I believe the eye detects photon energy, not EM fields. If you don't like photons, then the eye responds to the average energy deposited by the EM fields. Don't forget that in the visible range these fields change direction about 1014 times a second. Did you come across this article when you searched?
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Photoreceptor_cell
 
Thanks for the quantum and wikipedia comments. Since I didn't use the word photoreceptor I wasn't successful. I guess I was too Maxwellian. That wiki article is fascinating along with the great illustrations. Now I can really appreciate my vision.
 
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