Science Blue
General Information about Science Blue
The hexadecimal color code #044FC6 represents a shade of blue commonly known as "Science Blue". This color is composed of 1.57% red, 31.37% green, and 77.65% blue. In the RGB color model, it has the numerical values of 4 red, 79 green, and 198 blue. When represented in the CMYK color model, which is often used for printing purposes, Science Blue consists of 98% cyan, 60% magenta, 0% yellow, and 22% black. Science Blue typically evokes feelings of trust, stability, and intelligence. It is often associated with technology, science, and corporate environments. Its vibrant yet calming nature makes it a popular choice for branding and design projects seeking to convey professionalism and innovation. This color is not part of the web-safe color palette, so it may render differently on older displays.
The hex color #044FC6, also known as Science Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its relatively low luminance value of 24 makes it difficult to achieve sufficient contrast against light backgrounds, potentially hindering readability for users with low vision or color blindness. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. When using #044FC6 for text or interactive elements, careful consideration should be given to the background color to ensure adequate contrast. Employing tools that check color contrast ratios is highly advisable to avoid accessibility issues and ensure a more inclusive user experience. Conversely, using a very dark background may improve readability, but can cause other problems as well. A good solution is to use a desaturated or lightened version of the color for the background and the original color for the text.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #3370d4
A slightly lighter shade of blue can improve readability while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #4f86c6
A desaturated blue offers a softer look with better contrast against various backgrounds.
- #FFFFFF
Using a white or light yellow on the blue background will pass the AA and AAA contrast requirements.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Science Blue (#044FC6) can be used to create a sense of trust and reliability, making it suitable for websites related to finance, technology, or education. It can be incorporated into navigation menus, buttons, and heading elements to draw attention and guide users through the site. However, due to its dark hue, it's crucial to pair it with lighter shades for text or interactive elements to ensure readability and accessibility. Furthermore, this color can be used for graphs and charts where a strong, distinct visual representation is needed.
Graphic Design
In graphic design, Science Blue (#044FC6) offers a versatile option for creating logos, branding materials, and marketing collateral. Its depth and vibrancy make it suitable for designs that aim to convey professionalism and innovation. The color works well for background elements or accents, providing a pop of color without being overwhelming. To create visually appealing compositions, designers can pair Science Blue with complementary or analogous colors to achieve balance and harmony.
UI Design
Science Blue (#044FC6) is often used in user interface (UI) design to highlight key elements and guide user interaction. It can be applied to buttons, links, and other interactive components to create a clear visual hierarchy. However, care must be taken to ensure sufficient contrast between the blue elements and the surrounding background to maintain readability and accessibility for all users. This color can also be used for subtle accents and hover effects to enhance the overall user experience.