What is the common name for the tissue that shapes and protects the eye, known as the white of the eye?

The common name for the tissue that shapes and protects the eye, known as the white of the eye, is indeed the sclera. The sclera is a tough, fibrous outer layer of the eye that maintains its shape and provides structural support. It also serves as an attachment point for the extraocular muscles, which control eye movement. This tissue is crucial for protecting the internal components of the eye, such as the delicate retina and other structures.

The other options refer to different parts of the eye with distinct functions. The cornea is the transparent front part of the eye that refracts light and helps focus images on the retina. The retina is the layer of tissue at the back of the eye that senses light and sends visual signals to the brain. The choroid is a layer between the retina and the sclera that contains blood vessels and supplies nutrients to the eye. Understanding the specific roles of these various components is key to comprehending the overall structure and function of the eye.