Which type of light is primarily detected by cones in the retina?

The correct choice relates to the function and characteristics of cones in the retina, which are specialized photoreceptor cells responsible for color vision and visual acuity in well-lit conditions. Cones are most effective in bright light environments, where they play a crucial role in distinguishing colors and fine details.

Cones are sensitive to three primary wavelengths corresponding to different colors—short wavelengths (blue), medium wavelengths (green), and long wavelengths (red). However, their operation is optimal in bright light, which is why the classification of the light they detect is closely associated with brightness rather than color alone.

Other types of light, such as blue-green, red, and infrared light, refer to specific wavelengths or conditions that cones can respond to as part of their color sensitivity, but they are not sufficient indicators on their own in terms of the overall responsiveness of cones in typical visual environments, which are characterized by brightness. Infrared light is outside the visible spectrum altogether and is not detected by cones.