Science Blue
General Information about Science Blue
The hexadecimal color code #004ACA represents a shade of blue, often referred to as "Science Blue". It is composed of 0% red, 28.2% green, and 80% blue. In the RGB color model, this equates to (0, 74, 202). The color is a deep, saturated blue, commonly associated with intellect, trust, and stability. It is frequently used in corporate branding, educational materials, and scientific visualizations due to its professional and calming nature. The color falls within the blue color family and is considered a cool color. Its visual impact is quite strong, making it suitable for accent elements or areas where attention is desired. The equivalent CMYK values are (100, 63, 0, 21).
The color #004ACA, also known as Science Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, especially when used as text on a white background. Its relatively low luminance (brightness) results in a contrast ratio that may not meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for normal text (AA conformance). This can make it difficult for users with visual impairments to read the text. To improve accessibility, it's recommended to use a lighter shade of blue or pair it with a very light background color to increase contrast. Alternatively, for text, consider using a darker shade of blue or a completely different color with sufficient contrast. When used for non-text elements like icons or decorative elements, ensure there's still enough contrast against the background to be discernible, but the requirements are less stringent. Testing with accessibility tools is crucial to ensure compliance.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #337ab7
A slightly lighter blue, #337ab7, offers improved readability and a more modern feel while retaining a similar aesthetic.
- #003399
A darker blue, #003399, provides better contrast against light backgrounds, making it a more accessible choice for text.
- #6699cc
As #004ACA can look very intense, you could try the softer blue #6699CC. It's still a blue color, but might fit better to other muted colors.
Applications
Website Design
Science Blue (#004ACA) can be effectively used in website headers and navigation bars to create a clean and professional look. It evokes feelings of trust and stability, making it suitable for businesses in the technology, finance, or education sectors. The color can be paired with white or light gray backgrounds for a modern and user-friendly interface. Use it for key call-to-action buttons to draw attention and encourage user engagement.
Interior Design
In interior design, Science Blue can serve as an accent color in bedrooms or home offices to promote a sense of calmness and focus. It works well with neutral colors like beige, gray, and white. Consider using it for wall art, cushions, or throw blankets. Avoid using it as the dominant color in small spaces, as it can make the room feel smaller. The use of Science Blue can greatly contribute to a serene and concentrated atmosphere.
Data Visualization
In data visualization, Science Blue offers an excellent option for representing data trends or categories. Its cool, calming hue allows for clear distinction between various data sets, while not distracting from the underlying information. This can be used in bar graphs, line charts or pie charts. Pair it with complementary or analogous colors to create a visually appealing and informative presentation. Ensure sufficient contrast with the background to maintain clarity for the audience.