Which wavelength of visible light is associated with an increased risk of macular degeneration?

Macular degeneration is associated with the high-energy visible light spectrum, particularly blue light, which falls within the wavelength range of approximately 415nm to 455nm. This range is significant because shorter wavelengths, such as blue light, have been shown to cause oxidative stress and damage to retinal cells over time. The macula, the part of the retina responsible for central vision, is particularly vulnerable to such damage. Research indicates that prolonged exposure to this blue light may lead to the degeneration of photoreceptors and the accumulation of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) atrophy, which is a hallmark of macular degeneration.

Other wavelength ranges, such as those identified in the other choices, do not have the same level of association with increased risk for macular degeneration. For example, wavelengths in the green (520nm-555nm) or yellow-orange spectrum (570nm-620nm) are not considered to pose the same risks due to their lower energy levels. Wavelengths like 485nm-510nm also do not align closely with the spectrum of blue light that has been implicated in macular damage. Thus, the wavelength range of 415nm to 455nm is directly linked to heightened risks of macular degeneration, making