The visible spectrum falls in the wavelength ranges between 400-700 nanometers (nm). Each visible light wavelength emits light of a specific color. The color of light energy emitted at 650 nm is red, as an example.

A Closer Look at the Visible Spectrum

The visible spectrum has been shown to be only a very small part of the overall electromagnetic spectrum. This visible spectrum covers wavelengths from about 10-6 to 10-7 meters, which is a very small portion of the entire 108 to 10-14 meter electromagnetic spectrum.

The wavelength of color is expressed in nanometers - a billionth of a meter! A typical observer should be able to see colors from 400 to 700 nanometers, but this will vary from person to person. Note that it is not unusual to see the visible spectrum specified as either 400 to 700, or 380 to 770 nanometers. A spectrum of 400 to 700 nanometers is used for calculations of colorimetric data.

Roy G. Biv

is well known to those working with color.

His name makes it simple to remember the names and correct order of colors in a rainbow and the visible spectrum. The explanation is:

Red Orange Yellow Green Blue Indigo Violet

Never forget Roy G. Biv! He is always available to help describe the rainbow of the visible spectrum.