How Chemical Reactions Create Colorful Dyes

Dyes get their colors from chemical structures that absorb certain wavelengths of light.
Conjugated double bonds in dye molecules create vivid, stable colors.
Natural dyes like indigo and madder come from plant-based chemical compounds.
Synthetic dyes are made by chemical reactions designed to mimic or enhance natural hues.
Mordants are chemicals that help dyes bind tightly to fabrics.
Acid-base reactions can change dye colors, like litmus paper turning red or blue.
The dyeing process involves reactions between dye molecules and fabric fibers.
Different fabrics—cotton, wool, silk—require different chemical bonding methods.
Modern dye chemistry focuses on brighter, longer-lasting, and eco-friendly colors.
From ancient textiles to modern fashion, dyes show chemistry’s artistry in everyday life.