NALMCO Certified Apprentice Lighting Technician (CALT) Practice Exam

Which factor influences the color rendering ability of LED lights?

1. Type of reflector used

2. Dimming control

3. Color Temperature

4. Wattage

The correct answer is: Color Temperature

The color rendering ability of LED lights is primarily influenced by color temperature. Color rendering index (CRI) is a measure of how accurately a light source displays colors in comparison to a natural light source. Different color temperatures can have a significant impact on how colors appear under the light. For example, a light with a color temperature of 3000K (often described as warm white) will render colors differently than a light that has a color temperature of 5000K (which is perceived as cool white). The spectrum of light emitted by LEDs at different color temperatures can either enhance or distort certain colors, which is crucial in applications where true color representation is essential, such as in retail settings or art galleries. While factors such as the type of reflector or dimming control can affect the distribution and intensity of light, they do not directly affect the fundamental color rendering ability of the light source itself. Similarly, wattage primarily relates to energy consumption and efficacy, but it doesn't inherently influence color rendering properties. Therefore, color temperature is the most significant factor when considering how effectively an LED light source can render colors.