Color temperature refers to a characterization of the spectral properties of a light source and is commonly used during the production phase in the film and photography industries. The color temperature of a light source is a numerical measurement of its color appearance. Color temperature is commonly described in degrees Kelvin (K), a unit of absolute temperature. Lower color temperatures generally are thought to be "warm" as they contain more yellow-red colors, while higher color temperatures generally indicate white light having a substantial blue component or a "cooler feel." By way of example, the CCT of an incandescent lamp is usually within the range of 2700 K-3300 K. Natural light sources include daylight with a relatively high color temperature (e.g., about 5000K). Color temperature is a measurement that indicates the extent of yellowish or bluish tint to a white light. High color temperatures are bluish while low color temperatures are yellowish. Of interest is that human vision compensates for these tints, and perceives both high and low color temperature lights as being white. It is only when two sources of different color temperatures are side-by-side that they appear different. There are, however, other subtle effects of these differences discussed in this article.
This measurement began in the late 1800s, when William Kelvin experimented with heat and a block of carbon. As the carbon heated, he noticed that it produced an array of colors as the temperature was increased. The heated carbon block first produced a dim red light and eventually a bright blue-white glow as higher temperatures were achieved. He noticed that with lower temperatures, most of the energy was converted to heat. Ever since Edison introduced us to the very first modern, prototypical, electric light bulb in 1879, we have seen everything illuminated by these incandescent bulbs in their Soft White color temperature, measured at 2700K (Degrees Kelvin). The light created by these bulbs has given off a slightly yellowish glow for over 130 years, making the colors in our homes feel warm and cozy the entire time.For this reason, choosing the right colour temperature for Led Lighting application is of great importance.
Still, this might be nice in bedrooms and living rooms, but what about in a bathroom, kitchen, basement, or garage, where you're trying to apply the right makeup, prepare food, play ping pong, or repair a bicycle tire? Sometimes, it's better to have truer, white lights, that show truer colors and more contrasts, with an overall "brighter" feel to them. With the advanced technology of Led Lighting now come in a vast range of color temperatures, providing many options to choose from when lighting the rooms in your home lighting or outdoor lighting applications.
