What is the Difference Between Temperature and Humidity?

🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚

Temperature and humidity are two distinct concepts related to weather and climatic conditions. Here are the key differences between them:

  • Temperature is a measure of heat, representing the climatic conditions, whether cold or hot. It is typically measured using the Celsius scale, Fahrenheit scale, or Kelvin scale. The temperature of air is governed by solar radiation, with higher solar energy resulting in higher temperatures.
  • Humidity refers to the amount of water vapor present in the air. It does not directly change the temperature but affects how our bodies perceive the temperature. When temperature and humidity are both high, it can make us feel sweaty and cause the air to feel hotter than it actually is. Humidity is measured in mass or volume, and there is a concept called relative humidity, which is a percentage of the actual amount of water vapor present in the air.

In summary, temperature represents the heat or coldness of an object, while humidity refers to the amount of water vapor present in the air. Both concepts are related but distinct, and they have a significant impact on our daily weather and comfort levels.

Comparative Table: Temperature vs Humidity

The main difference between temperature and humidity lies in their definitions and the measurements they represent. Here is a table highlighting the differences:

Feature Temperature Humidity
Definition Temperature measures the heat content of the environment. Humidity measures the moisture or water vapor content in the air.
Measurement Temperature is commonly measured in degrees Fahrenheit (°F) or degrees Celsius (°C). Humidity ratio is a measure of the moisture-holding capacity of the air, ranging from 0 to 0.044319 lb H2O/lb dry air for saturated air at 100°F.
Psychrometrics Temperature is directly measured using a dry bulb thermometer. Humidity ratio is not directly measured; values are very small and can range from 0 to 0.044319 lb H2O/lb dry air for saturated air at 100°F.
Related Terms Enthalpy describes the heat energy content (BTU/lb dry air) of the air and water vapor mixture. Enthalpy is important not only in heating and cooling processes but also in understanding the relationship between temperature and moisture.

In summary, temperature measures the heat content of the environment, while humidity measures the moisture content in the air. Temperature is directly measured in degrees Fahrenheit or Celsius, whereas humidity ratio is a related parameter that describes the moisture-holding capacity of the air.