In color theory, the primary colors are the fundamental hues from which all other colors can be mixed. While there are different color models, two are most commonly used:
The RYB (Red, Yellow, Blue) Color Model
This is the traditional subtractive color model, historically used in painting and other subtractive processes. In this model:
- Red: A warm, intense color.
- Yellow: A bright, cheerful color.
- Blue: A cool, calming color.
By mixing these three colors in various proportions, you can create a wide range of secondary and tertiary colors. For example, mixing red and yellow produces orange, red and blue produces violet, and yellow and blue produces green. This model is based on pigment mixing, where adding more pigment subtracts light.
The RGB (Red, Green, Blue) Color Model
This is the additive color model used in digital displays, like computer screens and televisions. Here, the primary colors are:
- Red: Similar to the RYB red, but its precise hue may differ slightly.
- Green: A cool, nature-inspired color.
- Blue: Similar to RYB blue, but again, the precise hue may differ.
In this model, combining light from these colors creates other colors. Combining all three at full intensity produces white light. This model adds light to create color; unlike the subtractive RYB system.
Key Differences: The RYB and RGB color models differ significantly because they are based on different principles (subtractive vs. additive). The colors produced will not be exactly the same across these two systems. Understanding which model is being used is crucial for accurate color reproduction.
The reference states that color theory asserts three pure primary colors used to mix all possible colors, sometimes considered as red, yellow, and blue (RYB) or red, green, and blue (RGB). This aligns perfectly with the information presented above.
