Radiant Power/Wavelength graph Lighting

[Linday12]

Homework Statement

I have two graphs (Radiant Power vs wavelength) and I have to choose which one would be the best for a shop -- the one with the least yellowing. (fluorescent bulbs)

I wasn't sure how to tell. The emission spectrums are very similar. The continuous spectrums are different, the one has a wider radiant power in the 350-500 wavelength (in nm) and the other has more in the 600-700 wavelength part. They have about the same from 550 to 590 nm.

The Attempt at a Solution

I think the one with the greater wavelength from 400 - 600 nm would be the whitest, without a yellowing effect because it has more blue-green-yellow of the spectrum to make white, while the other has more of the end of the spectrum, indicating a more yellowish light.

Is this the right way to go about choosing the light?

Any help is highly appreciated, thank you!

 

[anathema]

I understand your dilemma in choosing the best graph for your shop. When it comes to choosing the best light for a specific purpose, it is important to consider the color rendering index (CRI) of the light source. CRI is a measure of how well a light source can accurately reproduce colors compared to natural light. A higher CRI value means that the light source can render colors more accurately.

In this case, the graph with a wider radiant power in the 350-500 nm range is likely to have a higher CRI value because it covers a larger portion of the visible spectrum. This means that it would be able to reproduce colors more accurately and would not cause a yellowing effect.

However, it is also important to consider the specific lighting needs of your shop. For example, if your shop sells clothing, it may be beneficial to have a light source with a higher amount of red light (600-700 nm range) as it can make colors appear more vibrant. Therefore, it is important to consider the specific needs of your shop and choose the graph that best meets those needs.

In conclusion, the graph with a wider radiant power in the 350-500 nm range is likely to be the best option for your shop in terms of reducing yellowing and providing accurate color rendering. However, it is important to consider the specific lighting needs of your shop before making a final decision. I hope this helps guide you in choosing the best graph for your shop.

 

[nlightner]

I would recommend considering not only the wavelengths of light but also the overall color rendering index (CRI) of the bulbs. CRI is a measure of how well a light source can accurately render colors compared to natural sunlight. Generally, a higher CRI indicates better color rendering. In this case, it would be beneficial to choose the bulb with a higher CRI, even if it has a slightly different wavelength distribution. Additionally, conducting a test in the shop with both bulbs and observing the lighting quality and color accuracy could also be helpful in making a decision.