Hello everyone! Have you ever noticed how the colors of a bird’s feathers can change depending on the viewing angle? This fascinating phenomenon is known as “structural color” – it’s like a little magic trick of light!
Structural color occurs when tiny patterns and structures on or within the feathers interact with light, reflecting specific colors. This means that colors can be created not from pigments, but from light reflection itself. The vividness of a bird’s feathers is thanks to this structural color!
For example, the colors of a peacock’s feathers change with the angle of light due to complex reflections. Similarly, the beautiful green and purple shimmer seen in pigeon feathers results from light interference, and the striking blue of a kingfisher’s feathers is due to spaces within the feathers reflecting blue light.
These natural mechanisms are extremely important in the world of science and technology. By applying the principles of structural color in the field of “biomimetics” (biomimicry technology), it is hoped that we can develop sustainable technologies such as fade-resistant paints and energy-efficient displays.
Isn’t it wonderful that we can learn so much from just a small feather in nature? Next time you see a colorful bird in the park, think about how its colors are not just “colors,” but a result of light interacting with the feather’s structure. See you next time!
