What color is 490 nm wavelength?

Color of 490 nm Wavelength

The electromagnetic spectrum encompasses a wide range of wavelengths, each corresponding to a different color visible to the human eye. The wavelength of 490 nanometers (nm) falls within the visible light spectrum, which ranges approximately from 380 nm to 750 nm.

Color Perception at 490 nm

At 490 nm, the perceived color by the human eye is Cyan. This wavelength is situated towards the middle of the visible spectrum, between the green and blue color regions. Cyan is often described as a light, bright shade of blue-green.

Science Behind Color Perception

Color perception is a result of the way our eyes and brain interpret different wavelengths of light. The human eye contains photoreceptor cells called cones, which are sensitive to three primary colors: red, green, and blue. The perception of cyan at 490 nm occurs because this wavelength stimulates both the blue and green cones in the eye, but with a stronger response from the green cones.

Applications and Significance

• Cyan, or light perceived at around 490 nm, is used in various applications, including art, design, and color printing.
• In color printing, cyan is one of the four base ink colors used in the CMYK color model, alongside magenta, yellow, and key (black).
• Understanding the perception of color at specific wavelengths is crucial in fields such as optical engineering, where precise color representation and differentiation are necessary.

In summary, the wavelength of 490 nm is perceived as cyan, a color that plays a significant role in both the natural world and various technological applications. The perception of this color is a fascinating interplay between physics, biology, and psychology, illustrating the complex nature of how we experience light and color.