1. What is Wet Bulb Temperature?

Wet bulb temperature (T_w) is the lowest temperature that can be reached under current ambient conditions by the evaporation of water only. It represents how effectively humans and other organisms can cool themselves through sweating.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the empirical wet bulb temperature formula:

Where:

• \( T \) — Dry bulb temperature (°C)
• \( RH \) — Relative humidity (%)
• \( T_w \) — Wet bulb temperature (°C)

Explanation: The formula approximates the psychrometric relationship between temperature, humidity, and the cooling effect of evaporation.

3. Importance of Wet Bulb Temperature

Details: Wet bulb temperature is critical for understanding human thermal comfort, heat stress potential, and industrial processes involving evaporative cooling. At high wet bulb temperatures (>35°C), the human body cannot effectively cool itself.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter dry bulb temperature in °C and relative humidity in percentage (0-100%). The calculator will compute the corresponding wet bulb temperature.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How is wet bulb different from heat index?
A: Wet bulb temperature is a thermodynamic measurement, while heat index is a perceived temperature that factors in humidity.

Q2: What's a dangerous wet bulb temperature?
A: Sustained wet bulb temperatures above 35°C are potentially fatal as they prevent human thermoregulation.

Q3: How is wet bulb measured physically?
A: Traditionally with a thermometer wrapped in a wet cloth, aspirated to ensure proper evaporation.

Q4: Does altitude affect wet bulb temperature?
A: The formula provided is for sea level. At higher altitudes, adjustments are needed for atmospheric pressure.

Q5: What industries use wet bulb measurements?
A: HVAC, meteorology, occupational safety, agriculture, and industrial cooling systems.