What is the primary role of rods in the visual system?

Rods are specialized photoreceptor cells in the retina that play a crucial role in vision, particularly in low-light conditions. Their primary function is to detect light and dark, making them essential for night vision. Rods are highly sensitive to light, which allows them to function in dim environments where color perception is limited. Unlike cones, which are responsible for detecting color and work best in bright light, rods are more about the detection of low light levels, contributing significantly to our ability to see in darker settings. This sensitivity is why the correct answer highlights their role in detecting low light.