What defines complementary colors?

Complementary colors are defined as colors that are located directly opposite one another on the color wheel. This concept is fundamental in color theory, as complementary colors enhance each other when combined, leading to a vibrant contrast. For example, blue and orange are complementary colors; when placed next to each other, they create a dynamic visual impact.

When mixed together, complementary colors can neutralize each other, resulting in a more muted tone. This characteristic is particularly useful for artists and designers who wish to achieve specific effects in their artwork. By understanding the relationship between complementary colors, creators can manipulate color to evoke emotions, create depth, and establish harmony in their compositions.

The other options describe different relationships between colors. Adjacency on the color wheel refers to analogous colors, which share similar hues. Similar shades of a single color indicate monochromatic schemes, while mixing colors to create new shades describes various color mixing techniques rather than the concept of complementary colors.