The Chemistry of Color Mixing: Alizarin and Cinnabar
Color mixing is an essential part of art and design. When two colors are combined, a new color is created through a process called subtractive color mixing. Two popular colors often used in this process are Alizarin and Cinnabar.
Alizarin Red
Alizarin is a deep red color that has been used by artists for centuries. It is a synthetic dye derived from the roots of the madder plant. Alizarin red is a transparent red pigment that is known for its permanence and intensity.
Cinnabar Red
Cinnabar is a bright red mineral that has been used as a pigment since ancient times. It is a mercury sulfide mineral that has a deep red hue. Cinnabar red is known for its vibrant color and opaque properties.
What Color Do Alizarin and Cinnabar Make?
When Alizarin and Cinnabar are mixed together, they create a rich, deep purple color. This color can vary depending on the ratios of each pigment used in the mixture. The combination of Alizarin's transparency and Cinnabar's opacity results in a unique and complex shade of purple.
Paint Colors vs. RGB Colors
It is important to note that when mixing paint colors, the result may differ from what is expected when mixing digital colors. In the RGB color model used for electronic displays, mixing red and green light will produce yellow, not purple. This is due to the differences in the way light and pigments interact to create color.
History of Alizarin and Cinnabar
Both Alizarin and Cinnabar have long histories in art and culture. Alizarin was first synthesized in the mid-19th century as a replacement for the natural dye extracted from the madder plant. It quickly became popular among artists for its vibrant color and lightfastness.
Cinnabar has been used for thousands of years as a pigment in painting and decoration. It was prized by ancient civilizations for its rich red hue and was often associated with royalty and wealth. Cinnabar was also used in traditional Chinese medicine and as a component in the creation of vermillion pigment.
In conclusion
Alizarin and Cinnabar are two distinct red colors that, when mixed together, create a beautiful shade of purple. Understanding the chemistry of color mixing and the history of these pigments can enhance your appreciation for the art and science of color.
