When a sample absorbs light of a particular color, we perceive the object as the complementary color, i.e., the color opposite the absorbed color on the color wheel. For example, if a sample absorbs red light, the sample will appear blue- green to our eyes. c is the concentration of the absorbing species in solution.
Black objects
White objects appear white because they reflect all colours. Black objects absorb all colours so no light is reflected.
When sunlight shines through an orange solution, the violet, blue and green wavelengths are absorbed. The other colors pass through. The transmitted light is the light we see, and it looks orange. Colored objects look the way they do because of reflected light.
Learn more about absorption of light here:
