This diagram offers a basic illustration of the depth at which different colors of light penetrate ocean waters.

This diagram offers a basic illustration of the depth at which different colors of light penetrate ocean waters. Water absorbs warm colors like reds and oranges (known as long wavelength light) and scatters the cooler colors (known as short wavelength light). Image courtesy of Kyle Carothers, NOAA-OE

Related Links

Deep Scope 2004

Deep Scope: Deep Light

NOAA Ocean Explorer Gallery