Question

Which has the longer wavelength: red light or green light?

Short answer

Red light has a longer wavelength than green light.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Electromagnetic Spectrum

The electromagnetic spectrum consists of different types of light waves based on their wavelengths. Visible light is a small portion of this spectrum and includes red, green, and other colors.

Recognize Wavelength Order in Visible Light

In the visible light spectrum, colors are arranged by their wavelengths. Red light has the longest wavelength followed by orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet which has the shortest.

Compare Wavelengths of Red and Green Light

Red light has a wavelength range of approximately 620 to 750 nanometers (nm), while green light's wavelength ranges from about 495 to 570 nanometers (nm).

Conclusion from the Comparison

Since the wavelength of red light (620-750 nm) is longer than that of green light (495-570 nm), red light has a longer wavelength.

Key concepts

Visible Light

Visible light is a spectrum of electromagnetic radiation that human eyes can perceive. This range spans the colors red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet. Our eyes detect these colors without much effort but often don't realize this subtle breakdown of light.
Visible light is just a small section of the entire electromagnetic spectrum, which includes other types of radiation like ultraviolet and infrared, which are invisible to the naked eye. These colors form naturally, such as in a rainbow, reminding us of the fascinating interplay between light and color.

• Spanning roughly 380 to 750 nanometers (nm) in wavelength
• Visible light is essential for many daily activities
• It plays a crucial role in photosynthesis, providing energy for plants and life on Earth

Understanding visible light creates a foundation for deeper explorations into optics and how we perceive the world.

Wavelength

Wavelength is a fundamental concept in understanding the behavior of light. It refers to the distance between two successive peaks of a wave, typically measured in nanometers (nm) for light waves. Within the visible light spectrum, different colors are distinguished by their distinct wavelengths, giving each its unique identity.
The wavelength determines many properties of light, including its color and energy. For example, longer wavelengths like red light carry less energy than shorter wavelengths like blue light. This is why red light is perceived as warm and soothing, whereas blue light appears cooler and more energetic.

• Red light wavelengths range between 620-750 nm
• Green light's wavelengths are shorter, ranging from 495-570 nm
• Violet light, having the shortest visible wavelengths, is below 450 nm

Comprehending wavelength allows us to better understand the distinct characteristics of light, influencing areas such as color perception and even technology, like lasers and optical fibers.

Color Spectrum

The color spectrum within visible light consists of various colors, each with unique wavelengths. This spectrum forms when light is dispersed, such as through a prism, splitting it into several distinct colors. Our understanding of the color spectrum helps us grasp how these colors combine and interact.
Colors emerge not just from specific frequencies but also from combinations, with white light representing a mix of all visible colors. Each color's position on the spectrum corresponds to its wavelength, with red, green, and blue being primary colors in different color models.

• Colors blend to form secondary colors: cyan, magenta, and yellow
• Natural phenomena like rainbows showcase the full color spectrum
• Technological applications use the color spectrum for display screens and image capture

Recognizing the color spectrum not only assists in identifying distinct colors but also enhances insights into how our visual system interprets and enjoys these vibrant experiences.