Jade Radiance - The Interference Colors of Dragonfly Wings俞昊辰Award: Top 100
School: 无锡大桥实验 This microphotography reveals the emerald-green wing patterns of Libellula aurantiaca. Unlike pigment-based colors, the metallic sheen originates from nanoscale chitin layers arranged with precision matching visible light wavelengths. These periodically stacked protein structures generate structural coloration through thin-film interference, selectively amplifying green light. Under magnification, the wing surface resembles a shimmering mosaic of microscopic prisms, creating angle-dependent luminosity. Evolved over millions of years, this photonic architecture serves dual evolutionary purposes: attracting mates with its jewel-like brilliance and mimicking vegetation textures for camouflage. Its energy-efficient color mechanism inspires sustainable alternatives to chemical dyes. 
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