Subtraktief

Subtraktief is a term that describes a process or a substance that removes or diminishes something. In art, particularly in printing and painting, subtractive color mixing is a fundamental concept. This process involves starting with a white surface, which reflects all colors, and then applying pigments or inks that absorb, or subtract, certain wavelengths of light. The color we perceive is the light that is reflected back. For example, a blue pigment subtracts red and green light, allowing only blue to be reflected. Cyan, magenta, and yellow are the primary colors used in subtractive color mixing. When these colors are combined, they absorb more light. Mixing all three primaries in equal amounts theoretically results in black, as all light is absorbed. This is in contrast to additive color mixing, where colors are created by adding light sources, such as on a screen.

The concept of subtractive processes extends beyond color. In chemistry, a subtractive purification method might involve removing unwanted components from a mixture. In engineering, a subtractive manufacturing process, like milling or drilling, removes material from a larger block to create a desired shape. The core idea remains the same: something is taken away or reduced to achieve a specific outcome or final state. Understanding the subtractive principle is crucial in various fields for controlling outcomes and achieving desired results through the removal of elements.