What Makes Everything So Colorful?

Georgina (grade 6) asked,

“What makes everything so colorful?”

Great question, Georgina!

Red, blue, yellow, and every color in between are caused by waves of colored light that come from the sun. When the waves of light hit an object, the object reflects some of the light and absorbs the rest of it. Some objects reflect more of a certain wave, making the object appear that color. For example, a banana reflects mostly yellow light, a pumpkin mostly orange light, and leaves mostly green light.

Your eyes also play a role in colors. Light receptors in your eyes send messages to your brain, which interprets the colors we see. Because we live in a fallen world, some people’s color receptors no longer work perfectly. These people may be partially or fully color-blind, meaning that they can’t see some or any color.

Evolutionists have wondered what purpose color serves in nature since animals with bright colors and bold patterns are easier targets for predators. But God made color and beauty for our enjoyment—and for proclaiming his creative majesty.

Do you have a question about God’s Word or his world that you want us to answer? Is there a topic you want to learn more about? Ask your parents to help you submit your question today. We’d love to hear from you!