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Role of Chromatic & Achromatic

Color theory analyzes the nature and usage of colors. This includes how they blend to form new colors and what colors visually complement one another. The vast majority of color theory focuses on chromatic colors. Achromatic colors primarily come into focus when used as a stark contrast color or a lightening or darkening agent.
  1. Chromatic Definition

    • The achromatic black dog is offset by the chromatic green grass.

      Colors containing characteristic hues fall under the category of chromatic colors. Most colors belong to the chromatic family as it only excludes the few colors defined as achromatic.

    Achromatic Definition

    • Achromatic colors lack hue. The family thus contains only black, gray and white. These colors may also fall under the heading of neutral colors.

    Scientific Applications

    • A study published in "Behavioral Ecology" showed that the ripening change of berries from chromatic reds to achromatic black influenced whether crows would eat the berries, as the birds could see the chromatic fruit from a distance but not the achromatic. Humans also experience vision color biases. Scientific studies proved that newborns lack the ability to distinguish between chromatic and achromatic colors on small objects.

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