Solvent effects on the wavenumber of the maximum of the longest wavelength electronic absorption band of all-trans-b-carotene were determined in 34 solvents. Together with results from previous studies, a data set for 51 solvents, mostly non-hydrogen bond donors, was constructed. This information was analyzed in terms of reaction field models and also showed its value for correlation purposes when used either alone or in combination with standard empirical solvent polarity-polarizability scales.