One super geeky thing I like to do is consider the implications of spells on economics in D&D. A simple example is continual flame. This spell creates a torch that never goes out and will not actually burn anything. Is such a spell is available, would people use it?
Cost: 50gp in components + 60gp to pay the caster.
A torch costs 1 cp and lasts an hour. Let's say you want light 8 hours a day and you have 10 spots where you want light. You have to hire a guy to keep the torches lit. This costs 9 silver pieces a day (1 for guy, 8 for 80 torches). Magic light would cost 11,000 silver. So it would take a little over three years for the magical torches to become cost effective. But say that you are underground and want light 16 hours a day. This halves that time. Also, maybe you don't want to have some untrained hireling running around. Also, if you have a mage who will cast if without charging (on retainer) the cost is halved. So the question becomes, if someone wanted to sell you a lightbulb that would never go out and would pay for itself in three years would you do it?
I think the answer is yes, given you have the money. 110 gold (more than a light horse and less than a heavy horse) is a significant investment for lighting and would probably only be used by people who had cash and who really needed the light to be on for awhile.
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