pszichrométeri

A pszichrométer, also known as a psychrometer, is an instrument used for measuring atmospheric humidity. It typically consists of two thermometers, a dry-bulb thermometer and a wet-bulb thermometer, mounted side-by-side. The dry-bulb thermometer measures the ambient air temperature. The wet-bulb thermometer has its bulb covered with a wick that is kept moist with distilled water.

When air moves over the wet wick, evaporation occurs. The rate of evaporation, and thus the cooling effect on the wet-bulb thermometer, depends on the amount of moisture already present in the air. In dry air, evaporation is rapid, leading to a significant drop in temperature on the wet-bulb thermometer. In humid air, evaporation is slow, resulting in little to no temperature difference between the two thermometers.

By comparing the readings of the dry-bulb and wet-bulb thermometers, one can determine the relative humidity of the air. This is usually done by consulting a psychrometric chart or using a psychrometric formula. Pszichrometers are valuable tools in meteorology, agriculture, and HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems for monitoring and controlling indoor and outdoor environmental conditions. They are relatively simple to operate and provide a direct measurement of humidity.