What is the role of transmittance in lens selection?

Transmittance plays a crucial role in lens selection as it measures how much light passes through the lens material. This characteristic is vital because it directly affects the amount of light that reaches the wearer's eyes. High transmittance means that more light can pass through, which is essential for maintaining clarity and brightness in vision, particularly in different lighting conditions. This makes it particularly important for lenses designed for particular visual tasks, as they must allow an adequate amount of light for optimal performance.

By understanding transmittance, optometrists and customers can select lenses that not only meet prescription needs but also enhance visual comfort and clarity. High transmittance is often preferred, especially in environments where visibility is crucial, while lower transmittance might be acceptable for specific applications, such as sunglasses designed to reduce glare.