A lightcast is a functional analysis

Functional analysis

Functional analysis is a branch of mathematical analysis, the core of which is formed by the study of vector spaces endowed with some kind of limit-related structure and the linear operators acting upon these spaces and respecting these structures in a suitable sense...

 and mapping of the illumination

Illumination

Illumination, an observable property and effect of light, may also refer to:* Illumination , the use of light sources* Illumination , the use of light and shadow in art...

 produced by a light source. It is used to map the physical characteristics of light emission for use in functional systems. A lightcast includes the entire zone of illumination while a raycast measures lighting of a single point in space near the light source.

A lightcast is typically measured using all components of a combined lighting system, including the illumination source and any reflectors, lenses, filters, and diffuser

Diffuser

Diffuser can refer to any device that diffuses in some manner such as:* In aerodynamics** Diffuser , a shaped section of a car's underbody which improves the car's aerodynamic properties** divergent part of the flute...

s, and the measurement may include average brightness across a flat two-dimensional surface as well as brightness across a curved of spherical surface. Color spectrum may be included, as well as moving and changing effects over time such flickering from a candle

Candle

A candle is a solid block or cylinder of wax with an embedded wick, which is lit to provide light, and sometimes heat.Today, most candles are made from paraffin. Candles can also be made from beeswax, soy, other plant waxes, and tallow...

.