Final answer:
When the afferent arc of the pupillary light reflex is intact, the direct response of the pupil when exposed to light is constriction, demonstrating a normal reflex.
Step-by-step explanation:
If the afferent arc is intact, the direct response when light is shone into the eye would be a pupil that is constricted. The afferent arc of the pupillary reflex involves sensory input through the optic nerve. When light hits the retina, a signal travels through the optic nerve, initiating a parasympathetic response through the oculomotor nerve. This stimulates the circular fibers of the iris to contract, leading to pupillary constriction. Therefore, an intact afferent arc implies that light sensed by the retina will result in a direct response of pupil constriction.