How can an increase in relative humidity affect visibility

In summary, the conversation discusses the relationship between visibility and relative humidity, and how it can be affected by condensation and hygroscopicity. Several studies have been conducted to investigate the impact of hygroscopicity on visibility, and the results have shown its dominant influence. Experiments have also been performed to analyze the extinction properties of aerosols in relation to relative humidity, using a K-EC-Mie model.
  • #1
Rod Alexei
29
0
Thanks in advance!
 
Earth sciences news on Phys.org
  • #2
Certainly it can in the extreme.
If relative humidity exceeds 100% then you will be getting condensation in the form of fog or rain which will reduce visibility.

It would not surprise me if there is an effect at lower RH, but I don't know for sure.
 
  • #3
Relationship between Visibility and Relative Humidity, PM in terms of Hygroscopicity
http://adsabs.harvard.edu/abs/2008AGUFM.A11E0177J
Hygroscopicity plays a key role connecting those three variables. And constituent of aerosol is important factor in terms of hygroscopicity. Many experiments have been performed to find features of hygroscopicity with diverse kinds of constituents. Based on those preceding studies, we investigated how dominantly hygroscopicity influences on visibility.


Analysis of extinction properties as a function of relative humidity using a K-EC-Mie model in Nanjing
http://www.atmos-chem-phys-discuss.net/acp-2016-119/acp-2016-119.pdf
 

1. How does an increase in relative humidity affect visibility?

As relative humidity increases, the amount of water vapor in the air also increases. This can lead to the formation of fog or haze, reducing visibility.

2. Can high relative humidity make it difficult to see?

Yes, high relative humidity can make it difficult to see by creating a hazy or foggy atmosphere that reduces visibility. This is especially true in areas with high humidity levels, such as near bodies of water.

3. Why does relative humidity affect visibility?

Relative humidity affects visibility because it determines the amount of water vapor in the air. When the air is saturated with water vapor, it can lead to the formation of fog or haze, reducing visibility.

4. How can an increase in relative humidity affect driving conditions?

An increase in relative humidity can make driving conditions more hazardous by reducing visibility. It is important for drivers to use caution and adjust their speed accordingly when visibility is reduced due to high humidity levels.

5. Is there a specific relative humidity level that affects visibility?

There is no specific relative humidity level that affects visibility. Other factors such as temperature, wind, and air pollution levels can also play a role in visibility. However, generally, the higher the relative humidity, the more likely it is for visibility to be affected.

Similar threads

  • Other Physics Topics
2
Replies
42
Views
4K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
11
Views
1K
Replies
3
Views
704
  • Materials and Chemical Engineering
Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
3
Views
955
Replies
9
Views
985
Replies
8
Views
3K
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • Earth Sciences
Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
5
Views
1K
Back
Top