Lämpötuntumaa

Lämpötuntumaa refers to the subjective sensation of temperature experienced by a person, which can differ from the actual measured air temperature. This phenomenon is influenced by a combination of factors beyond just the thermometer reading. Key elements contributing to lämpötuntumaa include air humidity, wind speed, radiation from surroundings (both solar and terrestrial), and an individual's metabolic rate and clothing.

High humidity can make warm temperatures feel hotter and cold temperatures feel colder because it affects the body's ability to regulate temperature through sweating. High humidity impedes evaporation, making it harder for sweat to cool the skin. Conversely, low humidity allows sweat to evaporate more readily, which can make cooler temperatures feel even colder. Wind speed also plays a significant role; it enhances heat loss from the body through convection, a phenomenon commonly referred to as wind chill. This means that even if the air temperature is moderate, a strong wind can make it feel much colder.

Radiant heat from the sun or warm surfaces can make a person feel warmer than the air temperature suggests, while being in the shade or near cold surfaces can lead to a feeling of coolness. Furthermore, individual differences in physiology, such as how much heat a person's body generates (metabolic rate) and the insulating properties of their clothing, significantly impact their personal lämpötuntumaa. Therefore, lämpötuntumaa is a complex interplay of environmental conditions and human physiology, providing a more holistic understanding of how temperature is perceived.