Certified Facility Manager (CFM) Practice Exam

What does the term "color rendition" refer to in lighting?

1. The brightness of the light source

2. The ability to provide a perceived color similar to sunlight

3. The energy consumption of the lighting

4. The longevity of the light source

The correct answer is: The ability to provide a perceived color similar to sunlight

The term "color rendition" refers specifically to the ability of a light source to display colors accurately and in a manner that resembles how they would appear under natural sunlight. This characteristic is critical in various settings, such as art galleries, retail stores, and photography studios, where true color representation is vital for the intended visual effect and consumer behavior. Light sources are often assessed using the Color Rendering Index (CRI), which quantifies their performance in rendering colors compared to a natural light source. A higher CRI value indicates better color rendition. Therefore, when evaluating lighting options, knowing their color rendition capabilities helps ensure that colors appear natural and consistent, enhancing the overall aesthetic and functional quality of the space. The other options relate to different lighting attributes: brightness computes the intensity of the light, energy consumption measures how much power is used, and longevity assesses the lifespan of the light source. However, none of these factors directly address how well colors are represented under the influence of the light, which is why the second option is the most accurate description of "color rendition."