Lighting Sources: Types and Considerations

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary function of the lamp within an electric luminaire?

To filter out harmful UV radiation.
To regulate the voltage supplied to the luminaire.
To control the color temperature of the emitted light.
To convert electrical energy into radiant light energy. (correct)

Why is understanding the pros and cons of different lighting technologies important for designers?

It simplifies the process of dimming and color control.
It helps in reducing the initial cost of lighting installation.
It ensures compliance with international safety standards.
It is essential for making informed lighting decisions that align with design priorities. (correct)

What factors contribute to the challenges the visual system faces with modern light sources?

The increased use of natural sunlight in interior spaces.
A reduction in the variety of available light sources.
Issues related to color rendering, color temperature, and glare. (correct)
Advances in technologies have made light sources easier to control.

What does the Color Rendering Index (CRI) indicate about a light source?

How well the source renders colors in the environment. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What does 'color temperature' signify in the context of light sources?

The perceived color of the light source, measured in Kelvins. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Why is the 'directability' of a light source important in lighting design?

It determines how easily the light can be focused and controlled. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What does 'efficacy' measure in relation to light sources?

How well the technology converts electricity to visible light. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Why is lamp life important to consider when selecting light sources?

Replacing lamps can be costly, sometimes more than the lamp itself. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What should be considered regarding the temperature requirements of electric light sources?

The effect of ambient temperature on the light source's performance. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is a key consideration regarding heat generated by light sources?

Considering safety concerns and additional cooling load needs. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of standard Incandescent light sources?

They are cheap, hot, inefficient, and produce a warm light. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What causes the metal filament in an incandescent lamp to produce light?

The filament's friction, which heats it until it incandesces. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is a key attribute of Halogen light sources?

They deliver clean, crisp, easily-directed light. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of halogen gas in halogen incandescent sources?

To enable the filament to operate at a higher temperature. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is an advantage of halogen sources over standard incandescent lamps?

They offer a smaller source package for better focus and direction. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant benefit of fluorescent lamp technology?

They offer a vast range of color temperatures and color-rendering capabilities. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What determines the color rendering properties and color temperature of a fluorescent lamp?

The quality and make-up of the phosphor coating. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the ballast in a fluorescent lamp?

To start the lamp and stabilize the electricity delivered to it. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the core technology behind High Intensity Discharge (HID) sources?

Creating an arc of electricity in an environment of metal vapor. (C) Signup and view all the answers

How does the light color and rendering capability of HID sources determined?

By the blend of metals that make up the vapor in the lamp. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is true of Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs)?

They are heat sensitive and commonly fail due to heat buildup. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What does the naming convention of lamps, like A-19, primarily describe?

The physical dimensions and shape of the lamp. (D) Signup and view all the answers

How is the sizing of common electric lamps indicated?

By a two-number code that represents increments of 1/8 inch. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What does 'PAR' stand for in PAR lamps?

Parabolic Aluminized Reflector. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a three-digit code on engineered light sources?

To show color rendering index and color temperature. (B) Signup and view all the answers

According to the three-digit code, what does the code starting with the number '8' indicate?

A CRI in the 80s. (C) Signup and view all the answers

How do source efficacy estimates help in lighting design?

They aid in identifying suitable sources for appropriate light. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What type of light is produced by incandescent globes and fluorescent tubes?

Diffuse and even light. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What effect does diffuse light have of shadows?

Fills in shadows. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is one visual effect of long periods of time in environments with purely diffused light?

Reduced contrast. (A) Signup and view all the answers

How is directional light usually achieved?

By using purpose-built reflectors to harness light from a source. (B) Signup and view all the answers

For what purposes is directional light typically used?

Accent objects and architecture. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Initial Cost

How expensive a light source is to purchase.

Operating Cost

Expense of electricity, maintenance, & replacement.