Question

Why does a blue solution appear blue what colors of light are absorbed transmitted?

Answer 1

A blue solution appears blue because it selectively absorbs light in the red part of the spectrum and transmits light in the blue part of the spectrum. When white light (which contains all colors of the spectrum) passes through a blue solution, the blue wavelengths are transmitted and the red wavelengths are absorbed. This selective absorption of light is due to the specific electronic transitions that occur in the molecules of the blue solution. The absorbed light causes electrons in the molecules to become excited to higher energy levels, which results in the color of the solution. Therefore, a blue solution appears blue because it absorbs red light and transmits blue light.

Answer 2

The solution absorbs the red and green wavelengths; however, the blue light is reflected and passes through, so the solution appears blue. This procedure takes place whenever an object displays visible color.