Definition & Meaning of "optic nerve"

What is "optic nerve"?

The optic nerve, also known as cranial nerve II, is a vital part of the visual system responsible for transmitting visual information from the retina to the brain. It is composed of millions of nerve fibers that originate from the retinal ganglion cells at the back of the eye. Upon leaving the eye, the optic nerve extends towards the brain, passing through the optic chiasm where some fibers cross over to the opposite side. The optic nerve then continues its pathway to the lateral geniculate nucleus in the thalamus, where visual signals are further processed and relayed to the visual cortex in the occipital lobe. This complex network allows for the perception and interpretation of visual stimuli, playing a crucial role in our sense of sight.