What is the primary function of peripheral vision?

The primary function of peripheral vision is to help orient oneself relative to the environment. Peripheral vision refers to the ability to see objects outside of your direct line of sight. This aspect of vision is particularly valuable for spatial awareness and detecting motion or potential threats, enabling a person to remain aware of their surroundings while focusing on a primary target.

Peripheral vision allows individuals to notice objects, movement, or changes in their environment, which is crucial for activities that require situational awareness, such as driving, sports, or flying. It plays a vital role in navigation and helps maintain balance and coordination as it provides cues about the position and movement of objects not directly in the center of a person's gaze.

This contrasts with identifying fine details, which typically relies on central vision, as does focusing on nearby objects. Enhanced color perception is also a function of central vision and occurs primarily in well-lit conditions where the cones in the retina are most active.