The term "visible spectrum" refers to the portion of the electromagnetic spectrum that is visible to the human eye. The word "visible" is pronounced /ˈvɪzəbl/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The "v" is pronounced as a voiced labiodental fricative, the "i" as a short vowel, the "z" as a voiced alveolar fricative, and the "bl" as a voiced bilabial stop. The word "spectrum" is pronounced /ˈspɛktrəm/, with the stress on the first syllable. The "sp" is pronounced as an unvoiced bilabial stop, and the "tr" as an unvoiced alveolar plosive followed by an alveolar trill.
The visible spectrum refers to the range of wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation that are within the perceptible range of human vision. It comprises the colors of light that can be seen by the human eye, ranging from approximately 380 nanometers (violet) to 700 nanometers (red). These wavelengths make up the visible portion of the electromagnetic spectrum, with shorter wavelengths corresponding to colors towards the blue end and longer wavelengths towards the red end.
The visible spectrum is a fundamental concept in optics and is often depicted as a continuum of colors forming a rainbow-like spectrum. When white light passes through a prism, it disperses into its constituent colors, revealing the full range of the visible spectrum.
The perception of color within the visible spectrum occurs due to the interaction of light with specialized cells in the retina of the human eye called cones. Each cone type is sensitive to different wavelengths, allowing us to perceive various colors. By combining these cone signals, our brain processes the information to create a visual experience of color.
The visible spectrum has significant implications in various scientific fields, such as physics, astronomy, and colorimetry. It is also utilized extensively in everyday life, including the design of displays, art, photography, and lighting. The visible spectrum's range of colors and its role in human perception have fascinated scientists and artists alike for centuries, contributing to a better understanding of light and color in the world around us.
The word "visible" comes from the Latin word "visibilis", which means "that may be seen". It is derived from the verb "videre", which means "to see". The word "spectrum" comes from the Latin word "spectrum", meaning "appearance" or "spectacle". It is derived from the verb "specere", which means "to look at" or "to behold". In combination, the term "visible spectrum" refers to the range of colors that can be seen by the human eye.