Lecture Notes on Waves and Color Theory

Frequency and Wavelength Relationship

• The lower the frequency, the longer the wavelength.

• Conversely, the higher the frequency, the shorter the wavelength.

Frequency and Energy Relationship

• The higher the frequency, the higher the energy.

Wavelength and Energy Relationship

• The shorter the wavelength, the more energy.

Additive Color Theory

• Also known as secondary colors.

• Primary colors: red, green, and blue.

• Secondary colors: magenta, yellow, and cyan.

• Secondary colors cannot be reduced by mixing primary colors; they are created by mixing the primary colors.

Subtractive Color Theory

• Some scientists support subtractive color theory and disagree with additive color theory.

• Explains how we see colors by reflection. Observed colors are those reflected, not absorbed.

• Different degrees or ratios of reflected colors produce different colors.

Example of Subtractive Color Theory

• If yellow light hits an object, it means red and green light (which combine to make yellow) are hitting the object.

Instructions for Worksheet

• Ignore the "color equation" section on the first page.

• Cancel the page with colorful spotlights.

• Complete the page on how to mix colors to create different colors.

• For the worksheet questions, only complete A, B, C, and D; ignore E, F, G, and H (equations).

• For green film: green will be reflected and blue will be absorbed.