In colour theory, complementary colours are located where?

Answer Details

In colour theory, complementary colours are pairs of colours that sit opposite each other on the colour wheel. On the standard colour wheel, the primary complementary pairs are red and green, blue and orange, and yellow and purple (violet). When placed side by side, complementary colours create the strongest possible contrast and make each other appear more vivid and intense.

Colours near the centre of the colour wheel are not a standard colour-theory concept for describing complementary relationships - the centre of some colour wheel models represents neutral grey or white. Colours next to each other on the colour wheel are called analogous colours, which create harmony rather than strong contrast. Colours in the same family are related hues (such as various shades and tints of blue) and are also not complementary.

The opposite position on the colour wheel is the defining feature of complementary colours, and recognising these pairs is fundamental to understanding colour contrast and mixing in art.