The online atmospheric humidity simulations on this page are a very useful tool to deepen in this concept and to know its measuring instruments, the psychrometer – hygrometer. You will also learn what we mean when we talk about saturated steam and, in particular, saturated water vapor.
What is atmospheric humidity
Atmospheric humidity is the amount of water vapor present in the air. It is an essential component of the atmosphere and plays a critical role in climate, meteorology and human well-being. Atmospheric humidity is commonly measured using two main concepts: relative humidity and absolute humidity.
Types of atmospheric humidity: absolute humidity and relative humidity
Absolute humidity is a direct measure of the actual amount of water vapor in the air, usually expressed in grams per cubic meter or grams per kilogram. It can be determined using instruments such as hygrometers or using equations that consider air temperature and pressure.
Relative humidity is a measure of how much moisture is in the air compared to the maximum amount the air can hold at a specific temperature and pressure. It is expressed as a percentage and is calculated by dividing the current vapor pressure by the maximum vapor pressure at that temperature. A relative humidity of 100% means that the air is saturated and can hold no more water vapor.
Effects of atmospheric humidity
Atmospheric humidity has several effects on the climate and the environment. For example, high humidity can make the air feel heavier and warmer, as water vapor retains and transfers heat more efficiently than dry air. In addition, high humidity can influence cloud formation and precipitation, as water vapor condenses to form water droplets or ice crystals.
Atmospheric humidity affects our perception of temperature through the heat index. Atmospheric humidity is also important for agriculture, as it affects the ability of the air to support plant life and crop growth.
Atmospheric humidity simulations
Saturated vapor I
Liquid water can evaporate and turn into water vapor. Conversely, water vapor in the air can turn into the water again. The “saturation state” is the state in which air contains the maximum amount of water vapor. As the temperature rises, the amount of saturation vapor increases.
Saturated vapor II
Liquid water can evaporate and turn into water vapor. Conversely, water vapor in the air can turn into the water again. The “saturation state” is the state in which air contains the maximum amount of water vapor. As the temperature rises, the amount of saturation vapor increases.
Psychrometer – hygrometer
A psychrometer is a simple device that allows you to determine the humidity by measuring the difference in how much water evaporates. The wet-bulb hygrometer consists of two thermometers, a dry-bulb, and a wet-bulb. Humidity is measured using the temperature difference between the two thermometers.
Diffusion of two gases
Mix two gases to explore diffusion! Experiment with concentration, temperature, mass, and radius and determine how these factors affect the rate of diffusion.
File
Introduction to Deep Earth Science
The History of Ancient Environments, Climate, and Life
Sensing Planet Earth – From Core to Outer Space
Sensing Planet Earth – Water and Ice
Modeling Climate Change
Introduction to Water and Climate
Global Warming Science
Climate Change: The Science and Global Impact
