Primaarvärv

Primaarvärv is a Finnish term that translates to "primary color" in English. In color theory, primary colors are sets of colors that can be combined to make a range of other colors. They are typically considered to be colors that cannot be created by mixing other colors. The specific set of primary colors depends on the color model being used.

In the subtractive color model, used for pigments and inks, the primary colors are typically red, yellow, and blue (RYB). When these colors are mixed, they absorb certain wavelengths of light, and the color we see is the light that is reflected. For example, mixing yellow and blue pigment results in green, as both pigments absorb red and blue wavelengths respectively, leaving green light to be reflected. This model is fundamental to painting and printing.

In the additive color model, used for light, such as on computer screens and televisions, the primary colors are red, green, and blue (RGB). When these colored lights are combined, they add their wavelengths together. For instance, mixing red and green light creates yellow light. This model is crucial for understanding how digital displays produce a spectrum of colors by emitting different intensities of red, green, and blue light.

There is also the CMYK color model, which uses cyan, magenta, and yellow as primary colors, along with black (K). This is a subtractive model commonly used in printing. While RYB is often taught in early art education, CMY(K) is more accurate for modern printing processes, and RGB is dominant in digital displays. The concept of primary colors is foundational to understanding color mixing and perception across various media.