When two gels are used in front of a lantern, this results in which type of color?

Using two gels in front of a lantern creates subtractive color mixing. This process occurs because gels filter specific wavelengths of light while allowing others to pass through. When two gels are used, each gel subtracts certain colors from the white light produced by the lantern.

For example, if one gel filters out red light and the other filters out green light, the light that ultimately comes through will lack red and green, resulting in the appearance of blue or another color that is present in the combined wavelengths. This subtractive mixing is a fundamental principle in lighting and theatre design, where controlling the color of light is essential for creating mood, atmosphere, and focused lighting effects.

In contrast, additive color mixing occurs when colored lights are combined, resulting in lighter colors, while primary colors refer to the base colors used in color mixing. "Compound color" isn’t a standard term commonly used in color theory or theatrical lighting, making it less relevant in this context. Therefore, subtractive color is the correct answer as it specifically addresses the outcome of using multiple gels in front of a light source.