Understanding Color

Color is a visual perceptual property that corresponds to the categories humans use to describe different wavelengths of light. It plays a vital role in art, design, communication, and nature.

Primary Colors

Primary colors are the basic colors that cannot be created by mixing other colors. They vary depending on the color model:

RGB Model (Light): Red, Green, Blue
RYB Model (Paint): Red, Yellow, Blue
CMYK Model (Printing): Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black

Color Models

RGB: Used in digital screens, combines red, green, and blue light.
CMYK: Used in printing, based on cyan, magenta, yellow, and key (black) inks.
HSV/HSL: Hue, Saturation, and Value/Lightness models used for color selection.

Common Colors

Red

Green

Blue

Yellow

Orange

Purple

Black

White

Color Psychology

Colors often evoke emotions and have psychological impacts. For example:

Red: Energy, passion, danger
Blue: Calm, trust, stability
Green: Nature, growth, harmony
Yellow: Happiness, optimism, attention

Using Color in Design

Good color choices enhance usability and aesthetics. Designers consider:

Contrast for readability
Color harmony and palettes
Cultural meanings of colors
Accessibility for color-blind users