The Color Temperature Calculator estimates the temperature of a light source based on its spectral peak wavelength. It is widely used in photography, cinematography, and lighting design to measure the warmth or coolness of light. This tool helps users identify the right color temperature for specific applications, ensuring the desired ambiance and accurate rendering of colors. It belongs to the category of optical and lighting analysis tools, aiding professionals and hobbyists in various industries.
Formula of Color Temperature Calculator
The color temperature is calculated using Wien’s displacement law:
T = b / λ_peak
Where:
- T = color temperature in kelvins (K).
- b = Wien’s constant, approximately 2.897 × 10⁻³ m·K.
- λ_peak = peak wavelength of the emitted light in meters (m).
Dependent Variable Formulas
1. To Calculate the Peak Wavelength:
λ_peak = b / T
Where:
- λ_peak = peak wavelength in meters.
- T = color temperature in kelvins.
2. Wien’s Constant:
b = 2.897 × 10⁻³ m·K (fixed value).
Pre-Calculated Table for Common Light Sources
Below is a table showing color temperatures for typical light sources and their corresponding peak wavelengths:
| Light Source | Color Temperature (K) | Peak Wavelength (nm) |
|---|---|---|
| Candle Flame | 1,900 | 1,526 |
| Tungsten Bulb | 3,000 | 966 |
| Halogen Bulb | 3,200 | 905 |
| Sunlight at Noon | 5,500 | 527 |
| Overcast Sky | 6,500 | 446 |
| Clear Blue Sky | 10,000 | 290 |
This table helps users quickly identify the color temperature of light sources and their visual characteristics.
Example of Color Temperature Calculator
Let’s calculate the color temperature for a light source with a peak wavelength of 500 nm (nanometers):
Step 1: Convert the Wavelength to Meters
λ_peak = 500 nm = 500 × 10⁻⁹ m = 5 × 10⁻⁷ m.
Step 2: Apply the Formula
T = 2.897 × 10⁻³ / 5 × 10⁻⁷
T = 5,794 K.
Interpretation
The light source has a color temperature of approximately 5,794 K, similar to natural daylight.
Most Common FAQs
Color temperature measures the warmth or coolness of light in kelvins. It is important for ensuring the correct ambiance, accurate color rendering, and proper lighting in various applications such as photography, interior design, and medical imaging.
Color temperature refers to the spectral quality of light (warm or cool tones), while brightness measures the intensity of light.
Yes, the calculator can estimate the color temperature of LEDs, provided their peak wavelength is known.