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What to try
- Click the gradient field or use its arrow keys to move the coordinate probe.
- Switch Spatial geometry; choose Conic and Close the loop to compare matching and different endpoint colors.
What to look for: Geometry changes how (x, y) becomes t. The same t always samples the same ramp color. A conic field wraps from the ramp’s end to its beginning; matching endpoint colors removes the color jump.
How it works
A linear gradient projects coordinates onto a direction. A radial gradient uses distance from a center. A conic gradient uses angle around that center. The same set of stops can therefore produce bands, rings or a color wheel.
Between stops, the interpolation space controls the color path. Stop positions affect pacing: closely spaced stops create abrupt transitions, while wide intervals produce gradual change. Adding stops is useful when you need a specific intermediate color rather than an unrestricted blend.
Use it in the Lab
Generate a gradient on its own layer, then combine it with masks of content made through selection, blending or thresholded imagery. The Lab supports two to sixteen stops and stores them in recorded chains.
Limits & distinctions
The Lab currently has rectangular selections rather than saved layer masks. Use layer compositing and selected regions for these workflows, and inspect gamut clipping at saturated stops.
Sources & references
Guide updated