How is the perception of color defined?

The perception of color is defined as hue, which refers to the distinct characteristic of color that allows it to be classified as red, blue, green, etc. Hue is determined by the wavelength of light that is reflected off an object and is the primary attribute we identify when we think about colors.

In art and design, understanding hue is essential because it influences how colors are perceived in relation to one another and can affect mood, visual interest, and even the effectiveness of a composition. For instance, using complementary hues can create contrast and make elements stand out.

While tone, saturation, and brightness are important aspects of color, they describe different attributes. Tone refers to the lightness or darkness of a color, saturation describes the intensity or purity of a hue, and brightness relates to how light or dark a color appears when compared to the surrounding colors. This distinction highlights why hue specifically defines the basic nature of color perception.