Question

A pure red object on a black background seems to disappear when illuminated with pure green light. Explain why.

a) Red objects absorb green light.

b) Green light reflects off the red object.

c) Green light cancels out the red color.

d) Red light absorbs green light.

Answer 1

When a pure red object is illuminated with pure green light, it can appear to disappear because of the principle of complementary colors. Complementary colors are pairs of colors that, when combined, produce white light. The red object absorbs the green light and does not reflect it back to our eyes, making it appear as if it has disappeared.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a pure red object is illuminated with pure green light, it can appear to disappear because of the principle of complementary colors. Complementary colors are pairs of colors that, when combined, produce white light. In this case, red and green are complementary colors.

When pure green light shines on the pure red object, the red object absorbs the green light, as red objects absorb green light. The green light is not reflected back to our eyes, so we perceive the object as if it has disappeared.

On the other hand, if the pure red object were illuminated with pure red light, it would appear red because the red object would reflect the red light and absorb all other colors. Similarly, if the pure red object were illuminated with white light, it would appear red because the red object would reflect the red light and a mixture of other colors.