View source for Color Temperature and Kelvins

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= Color Temperature and Kelvins =

== Definition ==
Color temperature is a characteristic of visible light that describes the warmth or coolness of a light source, measured in Kelvin (K). It represents the spectrum of color emitted by a theoretical black body at a specific temperature, providing a standardized way to describe the appearance of light.

== Scientific Principles ==

=== Kelvin Scale ===
* Named after William Thomson, Lord Kelvin
* Absolute temperature measurement scale
* Starts at absolute zero (-273.15°C)
* Used to describe the color of light sources
* Ranges typically from 1,000K to 10,000K for visible lighting

== Color Temperature Spectrum ==

=== Warm Colors ===
* Low Kelvin temperatures (1,000K - 3,000K)
* Reddish-orange to warm yellow hues
* Characteristics:
  - Resembles candlelight
  - Similar to sunset or sunrise
  - Creates intimate, cozy atmosphere
  - Examples: 
    * 1,900K: Candlelight
    * 2,700K: Warm incandescent bulbs
    * 3,000K: Soft white LED or halogen lights

=== Neutral Colors ===
* Mid-range Kelvin temperatures (3,300K - 5,300K)
* White to slightly cool white
* Characteristics:
  - Mimics midday sunlight
  - Provides clear, balanced illumination
  - Suitable for general lighting
  - Examples:
    * 4,000K: Fluorescent office lighting
    * 4,500K: Typical daylight
    * 5,000K: Horizon daylight

=== Cool Colors ===
* High Kelvin temperatures (5,300K - 10,000K)
* Bluish-white to deep blue hues
* Characteristics:
  - Resembles clear blue sky
  - Promotes alertness and concentration
  - Used in professional and technical settings
  - Examples:
    * 6,500K: Daylight or cool white LED
    * 7,000K: Overcast sky
    * 10,000K: Clear blue sky at noon

== Practical Applications ==

=== Photography ===
* White balance adjustment
* Creating mood and atmosphere
* Correcting color cast
* Simulating different lighting conditions

=== Lighting Design ===
* Interior space illumination
* Architectural lighting
* Theatrical and film lighting
* Mood creation

=== Technology ===
* Computer and device displays
* LED lighting
* Television and monitor calibration
* Photography and video production

== Physiological and Psychological Impact ==

=== Biological Effects ===
* Influences circadian rhythm
* Affects melatonin production
* Impacts mood and energy levels
* Regulates sleep-wake cycles

=== Psychological Perceptions ===
* Warm colors: Relaxation and comfort
* Neutral colors: Balanced and neutral
* Cool colors: Alertness and productivity

== Technical Considerations ==

=== Measurement Techniques ===
* Spectroradiometers
* Color temperature meters
* Colorimeters
* Specialized digital imaging equipment

=== Conversion and Calculation ===
* Mathematical models
* Spectral power distribution analysis
* Chromatic adaptation theories

== Limitations and Challenges ==

=== Perception Variations ===
* Individual differences in color perception
* Cultural and contextual influences
* Technological variations in light sources

=== Scientific Complexities ===
* Non-linear human color perception
* Metamerism (perceived color changes)
* Complex interaction of light and surface properties

== Future Research Directions ==
* Advanced lighting technologies
* Personalized lighting solutions
* Neurological impacts of color temperature
* Sustainable and adaptive lighting systems

[[Image:xxxx-color-temperature-kelvin.png|left|300px]]
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== References ==
# Illuminating Engineering Society Publications
# Color Research and Application Journal
# International Commission on Illumination (CIE) Reports
# Photometric and Colorimetric Research Studies

[[Category:Physics]]
[[Category:Optics]]
[[Category:Light]]
[[Category:Technology]]
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