American Board of Ophthalmology (ABO) Practice Exam

Which tint color is most effective at absorbing blue light?

1. Red

2. Yellow

3. Green

4. Blue

The correct answer is: Yellow

The most effective tint color for absorbing blue light is yellow. Yellow tint works well because it specifically targets the blue light wavelengths, which are typically around 380 to 495 nanometers on the light spectrum. By using a yellow tint, the shorter wavelengths of blue light are filtered out, reducing glare and improving visual comfort. This is particularly important in contexts where excessive blue light exposure can lead to visual discomfort or fatigue, such as in bright sunlight or from screens. Yellow lenses can help enhance contrast and reduce eye strain by minimizing the amount of blue light that reaches the eyes. Colors like red, green, and blue do not target blue light absorption in the same way. Red may absorb some blue light, but its primary function is different, and it doesn’t provide the same level of filtration as yellow. Green also does not primarily target blue light and can actually reflect some of it, while blue, by nature, allows blue light to pass through rather than absorb it. Thus, yellow is the most effective choice for filtering out blue light, making it an optimal option for protecting eye health and comfort.