Candlepower To Lumens Formula:
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The Candlepower to Lumens conversion calculates the total luminous flux (lumens) from the luminous intensity (candlepower). This conversion is essential in lighting design and photometry to understand the total light output from a source.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: This formula converts directional intensity (candlepower) to total spherical output (lumens) assuming uniform radiation in all directions.
Details: Accurate conversion between candlepower and lumens is crucial for lighting design, comparing light sources, and ensuring proper illumination levels in various applications.
Tips: Enter candlepower value in candelas (cd). The value must be greater than 0. The calculator will compute the equivalent lumens assuming spherical radiation.
Q1: What is the difference between candlepower and lumens?
A: Candlepower measures luminous intensity in a specific direction, while lumens measure total light output in all directions.
Q2: Why multiply by 4π?
A: 4π represents the surface area of a sphere, converting directional intensity to total spherical output.
Q3: Is this conversion accurate for all light sources?
A: This conversion assumes the light source radiates uniformly in all directions. For directional lights, the actual lumens may differ.
Q4: What are typical candlepower values for common lights?
A: A standard 100W incandescent bulb has about 100-130 candlepower, while LED spotlights can range from 500-5000+ candlepower.
Q5: When is this conversion most useful?
A: This conversion is particularly useful for comparing omnidirectional light sources and for lighting design calculations where total light output is needed.