What term describes the colored portion of the eye that surrounds the pupil?

The term that describes the colored portion of the eye that surrounds the pupil is the iris. The iris is a muscular structure that not only gives the eye its color but also regulates the size of the pupil, thus controlling the amount of light that enters the eye. This function is crucial for adjusting vision in different lighting conditions, allowing for better sight in both bright and dim environments.

The other terms refer to different parts of the eye. The cornea is the transparent front layer of the eye that helps to focus light. The lens is located behind the iris and further aids in focusing light onto the retina. The pupil, on the other hand, is the opening in the center of the iris that allows light to enter the eye. Understanding these components helps clarify how the eye functions as a whole in facilitating vision.