Percent relative humidity

Definition

Percent relative humidity is the ratio of the current absolute humidity to the highest possible absolute humidity at a given temperature, expressed as a percentage. It indicates how close the air is to being saturated with water vapor.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Relative humidity depends on both moisture content and temperature of the air.
2. When relative humidity reaches 100%, the air is fully saturated, leading to condensation and possibly precipitation.
3. Relative humidity can be measured using instruments like hygrometers and psychrometers.
4. High relative humidity slows down the evaporation rate of liquids.
5. Relative humidity affects human comfort, with high levels making it feel hotter than it actually is.

Related terms

Absolute Humidity:

The total mass of water vapor present in a given volume or mass of air.

Dew Point:

The temperature at which air becomes saturated with moisture and water vapor begins to condense into liquid.

Hygrometer:

An instrument used for measuring the moisture content or the relative humidity of air.