CCT Color Temperature Calculator

CCT Formula:

\[ CCT \approx \frac{2.897 \times 10^9}{\lambda_{peak}} \]

Correlated Color Temperature (CCT):

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1. What is Correlated Color Temperature?

Correlated Color Temperature (CCT) describes the color appearance of light emitted by a light source, measured in Kelvin (K). It indicates whether the light appears warm (yellowish) or cool (bluish) to the human eye.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the CCT formula:

\[ CCT \approx \frac{2.897 \times 10^9}{\lambda_{peak}} \]

Where:

\( CCT \) — Correlated Color Temperature (Kelvin)
\( \lambda_{peak} \) — Peak wavelength (nanometers)
\( 2.897 \times 10^9 \) — Wien's displacement constant in nm·K

Explanation: This formula approximates the color temperature based on the peak wavelength of the light source using Wien's displacement law.

3. Importance of CCT Calculation

Details: CCT is crucial in lighting design, photography, display technology, and visual arts to ensure accurate color representation and create desired atmospheres in different environments.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the peak wavelength in nanometers (nm). The value must be positive and typically ranges from 380 nm (violet) to 780 nm (red) for visible light.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the typical CCT range for different light sources?
A: Candle light (~1800K), Incandescent (~2700K), Daylight (~5500K), Overcast sky (~6500K), Blue sky (~10000K+).

Q2: How accurate is this calculation method?
A: This provides a good approximation using Wien's law, but for precise CCT measurements, spectral power distribution analysis is recommended.

Q3: What's the difference between CCT and actual color temperature?
A: CCT is used for light sources that don't emit as perfect blackbody radiators, while color temperature refers to actual blackbody temperature.

Q4: Why is CCT important in lighting design?
A: Different CCT values create different moods - warm light (low CCT) for cozy spaces, cool light (high CCT) for task-oriented areas.

Q5: Can this formula be used for all light sources?
A: It works best for sources with continuous spectra. For sources with line spectra (like LEDs), more complex calculations may be needed.