Light is a component of electromagnetic radiation that is visible to us humans. It can be described as tiny units of energy known as photons, which originate from a source of energy such as the sun. As light is a form of electromagnetic radiation, it propagates as waves, with the size of the waves determining the colour that we perceive the light as. The visible spectrum of light ranges from shorter wavelengths like violet and blue light to longer wavelengths like orange and red light. Similar to how radio is designed to receive a range of FM signals and play different radio channels, our eyes are developed to receive light waves and decode their colours. You may also be familiar with other forms of electromagnetic radiation such as radio waves, X-rays, and infrared light – these wavelengths are simply not visible to the human eye.
If we delve deep into the realm of quantum physics, we find that light is produced when electrons in atoms and molecules release energy. When electrons gain energy, they jump to higher energy levels, and when they release energy, they fall back to their original state. This energy conversion occurs through the emission of photons, which are small particles of light energy.
Light is a natural source of energy and one of the core elements of the universe. Its influence extends far beyond illumination and affects our fundamental health and the entire ecosystem in which we live.
-chromaviso
Music: "One Without" by Oliver Coates
09.18.22 // Baháʼí Temple // Wilmette, IL // digital pinhole photography
09.30.22 // Morton Arboretum Human+Nature exhibition // Umi by Daniel Popper
