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Psychrometer

A device using two thermometers (wet-bulb and dry-bulb) to measure humidity by comparing their readings.

forecasting

What is Psychrometer?

The sling psychrometer consists of two thermometers: one with a dry bulb (measuring air temperature) and one with a wet cloth-covered bulb (measuring the cooling effect of evaporation). The difference between readings indicates humidity — a large difference means dry air. Psychrometers are the oldest and most reliable method of measuring humidity, still used as reference instruments for calibrating electronic hygrometers.

Key points

See also: psychrometer is connected to other weather concepts. Browse the full glossary for related definitions.

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