1. What is Correlated Color Temperature?

Correlated Color Temperature (CCT) is a specification of the color appearance of a light source, measured in Kelvin (K). It describes whether the light appears more yellow/orange (warm) or blue (cool).

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the CCT equation:

Where:

• \( x \) — The chromaticity coordinate

Explanation: The equation calculates the correlated color temperature from the chromaticity coordinate in the CIE 1931 color space.

3. Importance of CCT Calculation

Details: CCT is crucial for lighting design, photography, cinematography, and display calibration to ensure accurate color representation.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the chromaticity coordinate (x) value. The value must be valid (x > 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a typical CCT range for indoor lighting?
A: Warm white is typically 2700K-3000K, neutral white 3500K-4100K, and cool white 5000K-6500K.

Q2: How does CCT affect human perception?
A: Higher CCTs appear cooler/bluer and are often perceived as more energizing, while lower CCTs appear warmer/yellower and more relaxing.

Q3: What's the difference between CCT and actual color temperature?
A: CCT is the temperature of a Planckian radiator whose perceived color most closely resembles that of the light source.

Q4: When is this calculation most useful?
A: When designing lighting systems, calibrating displays, or analyzing light sources for color accuracy.

Q5: Are there limitations to this equation?
A: This calculation works best for light sources that are close to the Planckian locus in the color space.