Today in class we created an Imitation Rainbow Spectrum using just the primary colours RED, YELLOW and BLUE. We could have done this using paint but it is very limited, unless you spend a lot of time with the creation. A far more impressive spectrum can be created following the procedure below.

Goal: Creating an Imitation Rainbow Spectrum

Things we need:

  • Food colouring (RED, YELLOW, BLUE)
  • Plastic Container with lid (we used preformed soda bottles)
  • Rain Saver Crystals (100g)
  • Spoons
  • 1 Litre water jugs x3

Procedure:

Step 1
Fill each of the three jugs with water and add food colouring so you have one jug of each colour RED, YELLOW, BLUE. A good strong colour will give better results.

Step 2
Add 3 or 4 tea spoons of Rain Saver Crystal to each jug and stir. Let it stand until the crystals have soaked up all the water and food colouring.

Step 3
Start adding the mixture to the plastic container/ preform starting with RED, YELLOW, BLUE and then RED again. Make sure you have an even about of each layer. Make sure layers are packed tight and then close the lid. Extension: Experiment with different combinations and what the possible results will be.

Step 4
Observe your creations for the next 24/48 hours as the colours start to bleed and all the colours of the rainbow are formed. The end product should look like the example below.

RED, ORANGE, YELLOW, GREEN, BLUE, INDIGO, VIOLET
(Roy G. Biv)


click picture for larger version

? Question ?

If I was to stir a rainbow in my mixing bowl it would turn WHITE. (see earlier post)
If I was to mix all the primary colours together it would turn BROWN.

WHY ?