Visible Light Spectrum

All electromagnetic radiation is light, but we can only see a small portion of this radiation. The visible light spectrum is the segment of the electromagnetic spectrum that the human eye can view. More simply, this range of wavelengths is called visible light. Typically, the human eye can detect wavelengths from 380 to 700 nanometers.

Cone-shaped cells in our eyes act as receivers tuned to the wavelengths in this narrow band of the spectrum. Other portions of the spectrum have wavelengths too large or too small and energetic for the biological limitations of our perception.

• I don't get it.

• GOT IT!

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS4-1

NGSS.MS-PS4-2

What type of wave does a light wave resemble?

• Transverse wave

• Compressional wave

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS4-1

True or False: Humans can see all segments of the electromagnetic spectrum.

• True

• False

What is the saying that can help you remember the order of the visible spectrum?

• ROYGBIV

• RYOBIVG

• ROYBVIG

• RIBYOVG

A prism can be used to...

• separate visible light into colors

• make a beam of light brighter

• measure the speed of light

• make UV light visible

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS4-2

What color of light has the longest wavelength?

• red

• green

• yellow

• violet

What color of light has the shortest wavelength?

• red

• indigo

• yellow

• violet

Why does this apple look red?

• The apple reflects red light and absorbs all other colors

• The apple absorbs red light and reflects all other colors

• The apple reflects all the light shinning on it

• The apple is red because we see that color.

Which color REFLECTS all wavelengths of light?

• Red

• Black

• White

• Pink

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS4-2

Which color ABSORBS all wavelengths of light?

• Red

• Black

• White

• Pink

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS4-2