Why do we perceive different colors of light?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking us to explain the reasons behind the perception of different colors of light, which relates to concepts of light waves and human vision.
Answer
Different rods and cones in our eyes react to different wavelengths of light.
The final answer is different rods and cones in our eyes react to different wavelengths, or colors, of light.
Answer for screen readers
The final answer is different rods and cones in our eyes react to different wavelengths, or colors, of light.
More Information
The rods and cones in our eyes send electrical signals via the optic nerve to the brain, which interprets these signals as different colors.
Tips
A common mistake is confusing rods and cones. Cones are responsible for color vision, whereas rods are more sensitive to light and enable seeing in dim conditions.
Sources
- Brain: Seeing Color - amnh.org
- The Fascinating Science Behind Color Perception - Datacolor - datacolor.com
- How Do We See Color? - Pantone - pantone.com