What are the convolved data?

[mapfiable]

In the output array of sep.extract there are many entries with reference to the "convolved data" (e.g. 'cflux', 'cpeak', etc.). What is this data and how is it calculated?

[kbarbary]

The "convolved data" is the input image convolved with the filter_kernel array.

[mapfiable]

Ooh, I see. I didn't make that connection. I mean, not that it isn't nice to have the flux for the filtered image, but aren't they difficult to interpret? Like, what do these values actually mean? As far as I understand, the convolution is only a technical means to enhance the detection results, but doesn't have a physical representation. Like, the convolved values are just "arbitrarily" worped. Can the convolved values tell us something the "real" values cannot? Is there a scenario where I would prefer the convolved values? I would naiively assume that the unconvolved values are always closer to the truth.