NSC 1969 - THE SCIENCE OF COLOR

credits: 6.0
This lecture-laboratory course serves as an overview of the science of color without prior science knowledge. It covers the basic physics behind light, the biology of how we detect color, the chemistry of colored compounds, and how color is utilized in and affects nature as well as various industries. Students will learn through lectures, laboratories, experiences, and inquiries in order to gain a broad understanding of what color is, how we detect it, and how it is used in different contexts. Objectives: A) Label a wave diagram and relate its values to color, when relevant; B) Explain how eyes detect different wavelengths of light and the consequences of that on color vision; C) Identify examples of the various chemical causes of color; D) Summarize information about the formation and use of colors in various examples from across nature and society; E) Evaluate the impact of color and colorants on the world. Method of Instruction: Lecture (including traditional lecture as well as self-guided inquiries into topics) as well as laboratory (including traditional laboratory activities as well as additional hands-on experiences outside of the traditional laboratory setting). Method of Evaluation: Participation, as evaluated by attendance and keeping on task; Short writing responses associated with readings, viewings, laboratory exercises, and experiences; One quiz covering the basics of material from the first two weeks; Short presentations on examples of color in nature and society; and A final project aimed at explaining a topic related to color to an outside audience. Course Fee: $75.00.