Most human cells are colorless. This is because the molecules that make up cells, such as proteins and lipids, do not absorb specific wavelengths of light.
However, some cells, like red blood cells, have a distinct color due to the presence of specific pigments. Red blood cells are responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body and get their red color from the iron-containing protein hemoglobin.
Here are some examples of cells and their colors:
- Red blood cells: Red
- White blood cells: Colorless, although they can appear white when viewed in large numbers
- Muscle cells: Colorless, although they can appear pink or red due to the presence of myoglobin
While most cells are colorless, certain techniques like staining can be used to make them visible under a microscope.