How does the cornea's curvature change as it moves away from the apex?

The cornea's curvature changes as it moves away from the apex, making it flatter. The cornea is a dome-shaped structure that is more curved at its center, which is known as the apex. As you move radially outward from the apex towards the periphery of the cornea, the curvature gradually decreases, leading to a flatter profile. This flatter curvature at the edges is important for maintaining the overall optical function of the eye and helps ensure that light rays pass through the cornea and focus appropriately on the retina. Understanding this aspect of corneal structure is crucial for professionals working with contact lenses and corrective optics, as it influences fitting techniques and lens design.