Science explained

Colour: light, pigments and perception

Colour depends on the spectrum reaching the eye, how materials absorb or reflect wavelengths, and how the visual system interprets the signal.

LightColour

Editorial review: August 12, 2026 · Julian E. Marston

Light sources have spectra

Sunlight, LEDs and other sources do not all contain the same mix of wavelengths.

Pigments subtract wavelengths

A pigment looks coloured because it absorbs some wavelengths and reflects or transmits others.

Screens add light

Displays combine emitted red, green and blue light in varying amounts.

Perception is contextual

Surrounding colours and adaptation can change how the same physical stimulus appears.

This page explains scientific concepts for general learning. It does not replace laboratory safety procedures, professional engineering guidance, or individualized medical advice.