Yellow

Color

For other uses, see Yellow (disambiguation).

Yellow in the CMYK color model

Yellow is the color between orange and green on the spectrum of visible light. It is evoked by light with a dominant wavelength of roughly 570–590 nanometers. It is a primary color in subtractive color systems, used in color printing. In the RGB color model, used to create colors on television and computer screens, yellow is a secondary color made by combining red and green at equal intensity.

Etymology

The word "yellow" comes from the Old English "geolu," which is derived from the Proto-Germanic "gelwaz." The term has been used in the English language since the 14th century.

Color science

Yellow in the subtractive color model

In the subtractive color model, used in color printing, yellow is one of the three primary colors, along with cyan and magenta. When combined with cyan, it produces green, and when combined with magenta, it produces red. In the additive color model, yellow is created by combining red and green light.

Perception

Yellow is perceived as a bright and cheerful color. It is often associated with sunshine, warmth, and happiness. However, it can also be associated with caution and cowardice.

Cultural associations

Yellow has various cultural meanings around the world. In many Asian cultures, it is associated with royalty and prosperity. In Western cultures, it is often associated with caution, as seen in yellow traffic lights and warning signs.

Natural occurrences

Yellow leaves in autumn

Yellow is a common color in nature, seen in flowers such as daffodils and sunflowers, and in fruits like bananas and lemons. In autumn, many leaves turn yellow as chlorophyll breaks down.

Pigments and dyes

Historically, yellow pigments were made from natural sources such as ochre and saffron. Modern yellow pigments include cadmium yellow and chrome yellow.

Uses

Yellow is used in various applications, from art and design to safety and transportation. It is a popular color for highlighting text and is used in high-visibility clothing and equipment.

Related pages

• Color theory
• Primary color
• Subtractive color
• Additive color