Cone cells are specialized photoreceptor cells found in the retina of the eye. They are responsible for color vision and function best in bright light conditions. There are three types of cone cells, each sensitive to different wavelengths of light: short-wavelength (blue), medium-wavelength (green), and long-wavelength (red). These cells work together to allow us to perceive a wide range of colors. When light hits the cone cells, it triggers a chemical reaction that sends signals to the brain, which interprets these signals as color. This process is essential for activities like reading and recognizing faces.