What distinguishes a primary color from a secondary color?

The key distinction between primary and secondary colors lies in the origin and creation of these colors. Primary colors are fundamental hues that cannot be created by mixing other colors together. They serve as the building blocks for creating other colors. In contrast, secondary colors are formed by mixing two primary colors together. For instance, mixing red and yellow yields orange, while mixing blue and yellow produces green.

This essential characteristic of primary colors—being unmixed and foundational—highlights why they are categorized distinctly from secondary colors. Understanding this concept is crucial in color theory, as it informs various applications in art, design, and cosmetology where color mixing is essential.

The other factors mentioned, such as brightness or existence in nature, do not accurately define these categories and may vary based on context. Consequently, recognizing that primary colors are the source of secondary colors provides clarity on how they relate within the color wheel and informs effective color application.