Are colors a result of electrons or the atoms themselves?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the science of color perception, specifically addressing the role of atoms and electrons in color generation. It is established that the color blue is perceived due to atoms reflecting blue wavelengths while absorbing others. The confusion arises regarding whether the entire atom or just its electrons are responsible for this absorption. The conversation also references Edwin Land's 'color constancy' theory, highlighting its implications for understanding color perception beyond mere wavelength interaction.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of atomic structure and electron behavior
  • Familiarity with light wavelengths and their interaction with matter
  • Knowledge of color perception theories, particularly Edwin Land's work
  • Concept of heat conversion and re-radiation in materials
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the role of electrons in light absorption and emission in atoms
  • Study Edwin Land's 'color constancy' theory in depth
  • Explore the relationship between light wavelengths and color perception
  • Investigate how materials convert absorbed light into heat and infrared radiation
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Students of physics, color theory enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the scientific principles behind color perception and the interaction of light with matter.

TofuSubmarine
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Hi Everyone.

I am confused about the science of colors. I will use an example in my question. I know that the color blue is caused by atoms reflecting blue wavelengths of light and absorbing other wavelengths of light. What I don't understand, however, is which part of the atom actually absorbs the other wavelengths of light? Does the atom as a whole absorb the wavelengths other than blue, or do its electrons do that? If the atom as a whole absorbs these wavelengths of light, how does it do that? And if electrons are responsible for absorbing these wavelengths of light other than blue, why don't they emit these colors when they drop back down to a lower energy level?
 
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This is probably not the answer you are looking for because it has nothing to do with atoms, but color is perception and is not as straightforward as what wavelengths are entering your eye. You might want to look into Edwin Land's 'color constancy' theory:

 
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Here's a link to an article. I didn't realize that he was able to get color vision by illuminating with just two wavelengths of 579 and 599 nm. Pretty cool.

http://www.greatreality.com/Color2Color.htm

Edit: forgot link!
 
I would think that the unreflected light is converted into heat, which could be re-radiated as infrared or conducted away into the surroundings.
 

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