Which of the following describes the function of the vitreous body?

The function of the vitreous body is primarily to maintain the shape of the eyeball and to keep the retina in place against the choroid layer. The vitreous body is a gel-like substance that fills the space between the lens and the retina. Its consistency helps create a stable environment within the eye, which is essential for the proper functioning of the retina. By holding the retina flush against the choroid, the vitreous body ensures that the two layers remain in close proximity, facilitating the optimal function of photoreceptor cells in the retina and maintaining the integrity of the visual pathway. This anatomical relationship is critical for clear vision.

Other options refer to functions that are not primarily associated with the vitreous body. For example, while maintaining eye shape is related to the function of the vitreous body, the specific and more direct role described in the correct answer emphasizes its role in supporting the retina.