For the first time, people may have seen a new kind of color. This color is a bright blue-green that we cannot see normally.
Scientists at the University of California, Berkeley and the University of Washington found a way to help us see this color.
They created a special machine called the Oz prototype. This machine sends a laser light to our eyes. It targets certain cells in our eyes called cone cells. These cells help us see colors.
Usually, when we see colors, many cone cells work together. But with the Oz prototype, the laser goes to just one type of cone cell. This makes the brain see a color it does not know.
In a study, some people looked at a gray background while the laser flashed. They saw a new color and named it “olo.” They could not find a similar color using red, green, or blue light.
The scientists hope to use this new method to help people who cannot see colors well.
Vocabulary List:
- prototype /ˈproʊ.tə.taɪp/ (noun): The first or preliminary version of a device or vehicle from which other forms are developed.
- laser /ˈleɪ.zər/ (noun): A device that emits light through a process of optical amplification based on the stimulated emission of electromagnetic radiation.
- target /ˈtɑːr.ɡɪt/ (verb): To aim or direct a particular action or effort towards.
- cone cells /koʊn sɛlz/ (noun): Photoreceptor cells in the retina responsible for color vision.
- background /ˈbæk.ɡraʊnd/ (noun): The area or scenery behind the main object of contemplation or consideration.
- method /ˈmɛθ.əd/ (noun): A particular procedure for accomplishing or approaching something especially a systematic or established one.
