Final answer:
The biometric authentication factor that relies on matching patterns on the eye's surface using near-infrared imaging is Iris scan.
Step-by-step explanation:
The biometric authentication factor that relies on matching patterns on the eye's surface using near-infrared imaging is Iris scan.
The iris is the colored part of the eye that controls the size of the pupil based on the brightness of the light. Near-infrared imaging is used to capture the unique patterns and characteristics of the iris.
By comparing the captured iris image with stored templates, iris scan technology can verify the identity of an individual with a high level of accuracy and security.