The human eye is sensitive to a specific range of wavelengths known as the visible spectrum. The visible spectrum encompasses light with wavelengths between approximately 400 to 700 nanometers. Within this range, different wavelengths of light are perceived as different colors by the human eye. For example, light with a wavelength of around 400 nanometers appears violet, while light with a wavelength of around 700 nanometers appears red.
However, there are many wavelengths of light that fall outside the visible spectrum, both shorter and longer than what the human eye can perceive. For instance, ultraviolet (UV) light has shorter wavelengths than visible light, while infrared (IR) light has longer wavelengths.
Although we cannot see these wavelengths directly with our eyes, we have developed technologies that enable us to detect and visualize them. For instance, specialized cameras can capture UV and IR light, which allows scientists, researchers, and photographers to observe and analyze these invisible parts of the electromagnetic spectrum.
When these non-visible wavelengths are captured and translated into a visible form, they are often represented using false-color images or assigned specific colors to aid in interpretation. For example, in astronomy, images taken in infrared may be represented with colors such as red or orange to depict warmer regions, while images taken in UV might be shown in shades of blue or purple.
So, while our eyes cannot directly perceive different wavelengths of light outside the visible spectrum, we have developed technologies to capture and represent those wavelengths in ways that allow us to study and appreciate the invisible aspects of the electromagnetic spectrum.