Photoreceptor cells are specialized neurons in the retina of the eye that detect light and convert it into electrical signals. There are two main types of photoreceptors: rods and cones. Rods are sensitive to low light levels and help us see in dim conditions, while cones are responsible for color vision and function best in bright light. These cells play a crucial role in our ability to perceive the world around us. When light hits the photoreceptors, it triggers a chemical change that generates an electrical impulse. This impulse is then transmitted to the brain via the optic nerve, allowing us to interpret visual information.