What term refers to the warmness or coolness of lighting?

Color temperature is the term that refers to the warmness or coolness of lighting. It is measured in degrees Kelvin (K) and describes the appearance of light emitted by a source. Light at lower temperatures (like 2000K) appears warmer, with a yellowish or reddish hue, reminiscent of candlelight, while light at higher temperatures (above 5000K) appears cooler and has a bluish tint, similar to daylight.

Understanding color temperature is crucial for lighting designers and artists in creating moods and atmospheres in performances. The choice of color temperature can significantly affect the audience's perception of a scene and can influence emotional responses. For instance, warm light may evoke feelings of comfort and intimacy, while cool light can suggest distance or unease.

In terms of the other options, additive color refers to the method of creating colors by combining light of different colors, which is not directly related to the temperature of light. Cross fades are transitions in lighting where one light gradually dims while another gradually brightens, without addressing the concept of temperature itself. Cue lights are indicators used in theatrical productions to signal the timing of events but don’t pertain to the characteristics of light regarding warmth or coolness.