White light to different colors

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the behavior of white light when filtered through colored plastic sheets. A flashlight does not emit the full visible spectrum; instead, it stimulates the three types of cones in the human eye to create the perception of white light. When a red plastic sheet is placed over the flashlight, it absorbs all wavelengths except for red light, specifically those around 620 nm and above. The exact properties of the plastic regarding non-visible light transmission remain uncertain without further information.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of visible light spectrum (400-700 nm)
  • Knowledge of light absorption and reflection principles
  • Familiarity with human color perception and cone cells
  • Basic concepts of materials science related to light filtering
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the properties of colored filters and their impact on light transmission
  • Explore the physics of light absorption and reflection in materials
  • Study the human visual system and the role of cone cells in color perception
  • Investigate the spectral output of different types of flashlights
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators in optics, and anyone interested in the science of light and color perception will benefit from this discussion.

fouad89
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Hi

I have a question, when shining a flash light (white light) we are getting all the visible spectrum of light correct; the wavelengths are under 400 to above 700 nm ? now if we put a red or blue plastic sheet on top of the flash light we see the color of that plastic sheet.

What is happening to the light? say we put a clear red plastic sheet on the flash light, so the light that is coming out of the other side has a wavelength of 700 - 750 nm ?
 
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Hi fouad89! :smile:

I'm afraid a flash light doesn't give all of the visible spectrum of light.
It only stimulates the 3 types of cones in your eyes to create the illusion of white light.

If you put a red plastic sheet over the flash light, that plastic sheet will absorb (or reflect) the visible light that is not red, and allow red through (which is 620 nm and up).
Whether it let's non-visible light through is not known.
You'd need more information on the plastic to be able to tell.
 
ok thanks
 

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