In daily life, we often hear the term “color temperature”, especially when purchasing lamps or lighting equipment, merchants often mark parameters such as “color temperature 2700K” or “color temperature 6500K”. So, what exactly is color temperature? What impact does it have on the lighting experience in our lives? This article will start from the basic concepts and introduce in detail the definition, measurement methods and important role of Correlated Color Temperature (CCT) in LED lighting.
What is color temperature?
Color Temperature, also known as Correlated Color Temperature (abbreviated as CCT), is a physical quantity used to describe the color characteristics of the light emitted by a light source. Its unit is the Kelvin (symbolized as K), which is used to indicate the degree of “warmth or coolness” of light color.
The origin of color temperature can be traced back to the theory of blackbody radiation. Imagine that an ideal blackbody emits light of different colors when heated to different temperatures. When the temperature is low, the light color tends to be redder and warmer. When the temperature rises, the color of light gradually turns white or even bluish and cooler. Color temperature refers to the assignment of a “temperature” value to a light source by matching the color of its light emission with the color of the light emitted by a blackbody radiator at a certain temperature.
The range of color temperature and the performance of the light color
The color temperature range typically varies from approximately 1000K to 10000K. The common color temperature segments correspond to the following light colors:
Warm white light (approximately 2700K-3500K)
The light color is slightly yellowish and orange-like, giving people a warm, soft and comfortable feeling. Similar to traditional incandescent lamps or candlelight, it is suitable for places such as homes and restaurants where a warm atmosphere needs to be created.
Neutral white light (approximately 4000K-4500K)
The light color is relatively neutral, neither yellowish nor bluish, appearing natural and harmonious. Suitable for office environments, classrooms and other Spaces where clarity and concentration need to be maintained.
Cold white light (approximately 5000K-6500K and above)
The light color is bluish and whitish, appearing bright, refreshing and even a little cold. Similar to the midday sun, it is suitable for places such as factories and hospitals that require high brightness and clear vision.
Measurement and representation of color temperature
The measurement of color temperature is usually carried out with the aid of a spectrophotometer. By analyzing the spectral distribution of the light source and matching it with the blackbody radiation spectrum, the closest corresponding temperature is determined. This temperature is the correlated color temperature of the light source.
It should be noted that the actual light source (such as an LED lamp) is not a true blackbody radiator. Therefore, the color temperature is “correlated”, that is, an approximate value used to describe its visual color perception, rather than the actual physical temperature.
The application of color temperature in LED lighting
The advancement of LED technology has made the regulation of color temperature more flexible and precise. By combining different LED chips and driving methods, manufacturers can produce LED lamps of various color temperatures to meet the needs of different application scenarios.
Multi-color temperature-adjustable LED lamps
Modern intelligent lighting systems are often equipped with color temperature adjustment functions. Users can choose warm white light or cold white light according to the environment and mood to achieve personalized lighting effects.
The combination of color temperature and color rendering index
Although color temperature affects the color of light, the color rendering index (CRI) determines the fidelity of an object’s color reproduction. When designing LED lamps, color temperature and CRI are comprehensively considered to ensure a natural and comfortable lighting effect.
The influence of color temperature on human health
Studies show that light of different color temperatures has a significant impact on the body’s physiological rhythms. Cold white light (high color temperature) can inhibit the secretion of melatonin, keeping people alert and awake. Warm white light (low color temperature) helps secrete melatonin and promotes sleep.
Therefore, in a home environment, using warm-colored light at night can help relax and improve sleep quality. When working during the day, using cold white light can help improve concentration and efficiency.
Summary
Color temperature, as an important professional term in LED lighting, is not only a physical indicator describing the warmth or coolness of light color, but also directly affects our visual experience and quality of life. From a warm home atmosphere to an efficient working environment, a reasonable selection and adjustment of color temperature can bring about more comfortable and healthy lighting effects.
In the future, with the development of intelligent lighting and human factors engineering, color temperature control will become more intelligent and personalized, creating a more suitable light environment for us.
