When you mix red and blue paints, a fascinating interplay of light absorption and reflection occurs, resulting in the creation of a secondary color: purple. This phenomenon is rooted in the subtractive color model, where colors are produced by subtracting, or absorbing, certain wavelengths of light. Red and blue are primary colors because they cannot be formed by mixing other hues. When combined, their pigments absorb different segments of the color spectrum.

Red paint primarily absorbs green wavelengths, while blue paint absorbs red and green wavelengths. When these two colors are mixed, each paint compensates for the other’s absorption, allowing a broader spectrum of light to be reflected. The combination of red and blue pigments reflects both red and blue wavelengths, creating a perceptual blend that our eyes interpret as purple. This synthesis of colors is a fundamental concept in art, design, and everyday experiences, illustrating the intricate relationship between pigments and light. The exploration of color mixing not only enhances artistic endeavors but also deepens our understanding of the physics of light and the visual spectrum.