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Which wavelengths make up the visible spectrum for human eyes?

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A circular RYB color wheel divided into twelve segments, showing a progression of colors from red, orange, and yellow to green, blue, and violet. — colour The RYB color model is being illustrated on a color wheel.

The visible spectrum, which constitutes the portion of the electromagnetic spectrum perceivable by the human eye, generally ranges from approximately 400 nanometres (nm) at the violet end to 700 nm at the red end.1

It is important to note that these limits are not sharply defined and can vary among individuals, with some people capable of extended visibility under high-intensity light conditions. Within this range, the human eye distinguishes different hues through the stimulation of three types of cones in the retina, which are sensitive to short (blue-violet), middle (green), and long (red) wavelengths.12

The following table provides typical wavelength values for various colours within the visible spectrum:

| Colour | Wavelength (nm) |
| :--- | :--- |
| Violet (limit) | 400 |
| Blue | 450 |
| Cyan | 500 |
| Green | 550 |
| Yellow | 580 |
| Orange | 600 |
| Red | 650 |
| Red (limit) | 700 |