Illumination and brightness are related terms often used in the context of light and visibility.
Illumination:
Illumination refers to the amount of light falling on a surface or within a space. It is a measure of how well an area is lit up. Illumination is typically measured in lux (lumens per square meter) or foot-candles (lumens per square foot) and can be influenced by various factors, including the intensity of the light source, the distance between the light source and the surface, and any obstructions that might block or scatter the light. Good illumination is important for visibility, comfort, and safety in various environments, such as homes, offices, and outdoor spaces.
Brightness:
Brightness refers to the perceived intensity of light. It's a subjective perception and can vary depending on factors like the sensitivity of the human eye to different wavelengths of light. Brightness is also influenced by the contrast between the object being observed and its background. Brightness is not solely determined by the amount of light (illumination), but also by how that light is perceived by our eyes.
In technical terms, brightness is often associated with the luminance of a surface or an object, which is the amount of light it emits, reflects, or transmits in a particular direction. Luminance is measured in candelas per square meter (cd/m²).
In summary, illumination is the objective measurement of the amount of light falling on a surface, while brightness is the subjective perception of how intense that light appears to the human eye.