AAMC FL Practice Exam

What optical condition is characterized by a focal point in front of the retina?

1. Hyperopia

2. Myopia

3. Astigmatism

4. Presbyopia

The correct answer is: Myopia

Myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness, is the optical condition where light entering the eye is focused in front of the retina. This results in distant objects appearing blurry while close objects can be seen clearly. The cause of myopia is typically due to either an elongation of the eyeball or a curvature of the cornea that is too steep, both of which contribute to the light focusing too early. In contrast, hyperopia, or farsightedness, occurs when the focal point is behind the retina, making near objects difficult to see clearly. Astigmatism arises from an irregular shape of the cornea or lens, causing distorted or blurred vision both for distance and near. Presbyopia, which generally occurs as a person ages, refers to the gradual loss of the eye’s ability to focus on nearby objects, also not related to the focal point being in front of the retina.