Uses a diode array spectrometer to explain why blue objects appear red when viewed through the yellowish amber lens of "blue blocking" sunglasses. (JRH)

Describes a convenient method of displaying color effects (colors of the blue sky, white clouds, and red sunsets) of Rayleigh and Mie scattering. (ZWH)

Describes construction and operation of an inexpensive and portable educational hallway exhibit on color mixing. (JRH)

Presents the Night Spectra Quest, a pocket-sized chart that identifies in color the spectra of all the common night lights and has an integrally mounted, holographic diffraction grating to look through. (JRH)

An approach which is designed to help students better understand the utility of models in understanding and doing physics, specifically in a course in light and color, is described in this paper. Explanations are given and illustrations are provided of an analogue model of waves which assist in the creation of an abstract model to deduce Snell's…

Describes a system that demonstrates how a color may be generated and specified in mathematical terms. Illustrates the mixing of primary colors as well as the concepts of saturation, luminance, and illumination. (JRH)

This study focused on misconceptions related to light and vision. Researchers administered diagnostic tests about light, vision, and color before and after instruction to 227 fifth-grade students over a 2-year period. They also conducted 11 clinical interviews. The tests and interviews revealed that almost all students shared certain…

In this activity, students test whether the color of a material affects how much heat it absorbs. An ice cube is placed in a box made of colored paper (one box per color; white, yellow, red, and black) which is then placed in the sun. Students predict which color will melt the ice cube first and record the order and time required for the ice cubes…

Most people certainly take light for granted. But understanding the basic nature of light can open up a whole new world! All about Light takes kids on a fun journey to answer questions like: "Why does light shine through some things and not others?" and "Why can we see our reflections in water, but not in a rock?" Students learn how light travels…

Why does light behave the way it does? How does it travel from its source to the objects it illuminates and then to human eyes? Students will learn about waves, including the concepts of reflection, absorption, refraction and how light is related to the colors that can be seen. With a hands-on activity and real-life examples, these concepts are…

Describes activities to be used with young children to enhance their awareness of color and visual perception skills. Activities described relate to such content as primary and secondary colors, shades and tints, coloring with crayons, chalk painting, and visual differences. (DS)

Describes construction and use of a simple home-built device, using an overhead projector, for use in demonstrations of the addition of various combinations of red, green, and blue light. Useful in connection with discussions of color, color vision, or color television. (JRH)

Students explore three-dimensional properties by creating red and green wall decorations related to Christmas. Students examine why images seem to vibrate when red and green pieces are small and close together. Instructions to conduct the activity and construct 3-D glasses are given. (MDH)

Presents a cross-curricular theme unit on colors that includes a pullout poster and a resource list. Social studies activities highlight flags of the world. Science activities teach about colors of animals and the science of color. Language arts activities describe colorful language. Mathematics activities involve sorting and graphing colors. (SM)

Presents activities that utilize balloons to encourage students to explore questions related to scientific concepts. Concepts explored include light, heat, charged ions, polarization, and the sense of smell. (MDH)