Primary visual cortex (V1)

The primary visual cortex (V1) is the brain area at the back of the head that first processes visual information from the eyes. When light enters the eyes, it sends signals to V1, which interprets basic features like edges, shapes, and colors. This initial processing is essential for understanding what we see and forms the foundation for more complex visual perception, such as recognizing objects and depth. Essentially, V1 acts as the brain’s primary translator for visual signals, transforming raw light information into meaningful images we can recognize and respond to.