Is it true that the human retina can see ultraviolet?

Question

Please post a link if you find a site that explains either way. Also, if the retina can see ultraviolet light, what does it look like?

Answer 1

No. Ultra violet is by definition outside the visible spectrum of light. If the retina could detect ultra violet then the pupil would reduce in size when you looked at a strong UV source and you'd notice other light sources appear a lot dimmer. You can see the effects of UV when certain objects that are illuminated by the right wavelength of UV fluoresce. In fact the white coating on the inside of fluorescent bulbs does just that.

Answer 2

"Light, or visible radiation, ranges in wavelength from about 380 to 700n. Other wavelengths are not visible, eighter because the ocular media does not transmit them or because they are not absorved by the retinal photopigments."

Our cornea absorbs the very short UV C wavelength while the crystalline lens protects the retina from the UV A and UV B wavelengths. The UV A and UV B wavelengths are what eventually cause you to have a cataract form and subsequently have your lens replaced.
The photopigments (your rods and cones) then absorb the remaining electric radiation that are within the visible spectrum.

Answer 3

No, sorry. And the other answerers saying the "brain nerves" can't process the info are dumbasses.

The visible spectrum (for mammals) is from 380 to 780 nm. Ultraviolet is from 280 to 380 nm. Note the lack of overlap.

Answer 4

I believe that the retina can see it but the brain cannot comprehend what its looking at

Answer 5

yes it is possible. i read an article in national geographic last year about a man who had some kind of retainal injury or condition. he described his vision as brighter, clearer, and that he was able to see hues he never saw before. i think he said it was like some kind of hyped up, advaced form of seeing things.

Answer 6

i think so. but. like the first person have said, the brain n nerves can`t translate it...