The study of colours is complex and different points of view provide a theoretical framework:

  • the physical theory: type of light, electromagnetic waves of definite lengths, …
  • the chemical theory: type and properties of dyes (colorantes), with their production, …
  • the physiological theory of color: studies the process of color perception by the eye, …
  • the psychological theory of color: studies colors as a subjective experience, sensations and ideas evoked by colors.

A good introduction to these topics is: http://www.worqx.com/color/index.htm

The purpose of this page is not to dive into these theories but only to provide the basics knowledge required to specify colors. There are many different reds, blues, … we need an accurate system allowing to specify it.

1. Additive color model

color model

2. Hue versus Value

color hue-value

3. Hue versus Saturation

color hue-saturation

4. Hue versus Saturation (high Value)

color hue-saturation-light

5. Hue versus Saturation (Low Value)

color hue-saturation-deep

6. Encoding

Each primary colour is encoded between 0 and 255

Each color being a composition of Red, Green, Blue, a color can be specified as (125,122,12) for instance in decimal.

Color are frequently specified as Hexadecimal as well.



Published

02 January 2001

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