Invisible "colors" to the human eye include infrared and ultraviolet, which extend beyond the visible light spectrum.
The Visible Light Spectrum
Humans can only see a specific range of electromagnetic radiation known as the visible light spectrum. This range includes the colors of the rainbow: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet.
Invisible "Colors" Beyond the Rainbow
However, the electromagnetic spectrum extends far beyond what we can see. According to the provided reference, there are “colours” that our eyes cannot see, including:
- Infrared: This is found beyond the red end of the spectrum and is often associated with heat.
- Ultraviolet: This is found beyond the violet end of the spectrum and is known for its ability to cause sunburn.
Comparing Different "Types" of Light
As highlighted in the reference, images taken in different "types of light"—including visible, infrared, and ultraviolet—show that the rainbow (the visible spectrum) is just a small portion of the entire electromagnetic spectrum. The reference shows that the "colours" extend far beyond the human eye's ability to perceive them.
Examples of Invisible Light
| Type of Light | Characteristics | Examples of Uses/Occurrences |
|---|---|---|
| Infrared | Longer wavelengths than red, associated with heat | Thermal imaging, remote controls, night vision devices |
| Ultraviolet | Shorter wavelengths than violet, can cause sunburn | Sterilization, tanning beds, forensic science |
Conclusion
Therefore, while "color" is often used to describe visible light, infrared and ultraviolet are "colors" of light that are invisible to the human eye.
