Bill Nye the Science Guy (1993)

S1E16 Light & Color

Get ready for the "Light and Color" episode! Imagine a world without light, like being trapped in a windowless, dark room. An age-old adage states, "We perceive light reflecting off of objects." Our ability to see colors relies on light bouncing into our eyes. Sunlight, or white light, comprises various colors mixed together. When it strikes a white object, nearly all of it reflects back, making it appear white. Objects have distinct colors because they absorb certain light wavelengths. For instance, oranges absorb all colors except orange, while grass reflects green. Even Bill Nye’s blue lab coat follows this rule, reflecting blue light only. Each color, including black, is formed through this fascinating process.