Final answer:
In the term phacoemulsification, the combining form phac/o means lens. This medical term is associated with a procedure that targets the cloudy lens in cataract surgery.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term phacoemulsification refers to a modern cataract surgery technique where an ultrasonic device is used to break up and then remove a cloudy lens, or cataract, from the eye. The combining form phac/o within the word relates to the lens of the eye. This is significant as the procedure specifically targets the defective lens to restore vision. The lens is a critical part of the eye's anatomy, working with the cornea to focus light onto the retina to form a clear image. Its elasticity allows it to change shape and focus on objects at various distances, but it can become clouded, leading to cataracts. The iris, on the other hand, is the part of the eye that controls the size of the pupil and thus the amount of light that enters the eye. In summary, in the choice provided, the correcting option for the meaning of phac/o is (c) lens.