Green

What is Green?

Green is a beautiful color that we see in many places around us. It is the color that sits between cyan and yellow on what we call the visible spectrum. When light of about 495–570 nanometers shines on our eyes, we see the color green.

Where Do We See Green?

Nature is full of green! This is because of a special thing called chlorophyll. Chlorophyll helps plants turn sunlight into energy, making them green. Many animals also have green colors to blend in with leafy plants. For example, some spiders and frogs look green to hide better in green places.

We also see green in shiny stones like the emerald. Emeralds get their green color from minerals such as chromium.

Why is Green Important?

Green is a color that makes us think of many nice things. It reminds us of nature, life, health, and hope. Today, green is often used to show that something is safe or good. For example, a green light means it’s safe to go. Green is also the color that many groups use when they want to help the environment and make the world a greener place.

Fun Facts About Green

• In art, we can make green by mixing yellow and cyan.
• On screens like televisions and computers, green is one of the three main colors—along with red and blue—that help create all other colors.
• The word green comes from old words that mean “to grow.” It is related to words for grass and growth in many languages.
• In some countries, green is a lucky color. For example, in Thailand, people born on Wednesdays are thought to be lucky if they see green.
• Green is also the color of springtime, which is a time of new beginnings and fresh growth.

Green is all around us, and it makes the world a beautiful place!