How does humidity affect conductivity of air?

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SUMMARY

Humidity significantly affects the electrical conductivity of air. High humidity levels increase conductivity because water molecules in the air facilitate the dissipation of excess charge, reducing static electricity buildup. Conversely, dry air serves as a better insulator, promoting the accumulation of static charge and leading to more frequent electric shocks. This relationship underscores the importance of moisture in electrical phenomena.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electrical conductivity principles
  • Familiarity with static electricity concepts
  • Knowledge of the role of water molecules in charge transfer
  • Basic grasp of atmospheric conditions and their effects on electrical properties
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the relationship between humidity and electrical conductivity in various gases
  • Explore the effects of humidity on static electricity in different environments
  • Investigate methods to measure humidity's impact on electrical properties
  • Learn about the applications of humidity control in electrical engineering
USEFUL FOR

Physicists, electrical engineers, environmental scientists, and anyone interested in the effects of humidity on electrical properties.

AakashPandita
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How does humidity affect conductivity of air?

I am asking this that because I read that dry air is better insulator than normal air.
 
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AakashPandita said:
How does humidity affect conductivity of air?

I am asking this that because I read that dry air is better insulator than normal air.

Do you find some graphs when you Google the subject?
 
Are you talking about thermal conductivity or electrical conductivity?

Chet
 
I was talking about electrical conductivity.
Just after I submitted this thread I found the answer in another page I was reading.
http://www.physicsclassroom.com/class/estatics/Lesson-1/Conductors-and-Insulators
i.e.
Water has a tendency to gradually remove excess charge from objects. When the humidity is high, a person acquiring an excess charge will tend to lose that charge to water molecules in the surrounding air. On the other hand, dry air conditions are more conducive to the buildup of static charge and more frequent electric shocks.
 

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