Which of the following terms refers to the relative lightness or darkness of color in a painting?

The term that refers to the relative lightness or darkness of color in a painting is value. In the context of art, value is crucial because it helps to create depth, contrast, and emphasis within a composition. Artists manipulate value to convey mood, to define forms, and to guide the viewer's eye through a piece. A high value indicates a lighter color, while a low value indicates a darker color, creating a spectrum that allows for a range of visual effects.

While hue refers to the specific color itself (like red, blue, or yellow), and saturation describes the intensity or purity of a color, tone is often seen as a modification of hue that incorporates value. Thus, while all these terms relate to color, it is value that specifically addresses the concept of lightness and darkness. This understanding is essential for students studying art, as it impacts how they create and interpret visual works.