Final answer:
The palpebral conjunctiva is the membrane that protects the anterior surface of the eyeball, with further protection and light transmission provided by the cornea.
Step-by-step explanation:
The thin layer that protects the anterior surface of the eyeball is part of the palpebral conjunctiva, a membrane attached to the inner surface of the eyelids. Additionally, the anterior surface of the eye is also protected by the cornea, which is a transparent layer that allows light to enter the eye and is part of the fibrous tunic. The fibrous tunic is the outer layer of the eye primarily composed of connective tissue known as the sclera and the cornea. The eye itself is divided into the anterior and posterior chambers, with the anterior chamber containing the aqueous humor, a watery fluid that fills the space including the cornea, iris, ciliary body, and lens.