Question 5 of 9intermediate💡 UnderstandShort Answer2 marks

Explain relative humidity.

Correct Answer

Relative humidity is defined as the percentage of moisture present in the atmosphere as compared to its full capacity at a given temperature. It essentially measures the saturation level of the air.

The ability of the air to hold water vapour depends entirely on its temperature. With changes in air temperature, the capacity to retain moisture increases or decreases, which directly affects the relative humidity.

Geographically, relative humidity varies. It is greater over the oceans and least over the continents.

Exercise: EXERCISES | Q: 2(ii)
For More Understanding

Explanation

The answer is derived directly from the first paragraph of the provided context. It defines relative humidity as a percentage ratio of actual moisture to full capacity. It highlights the dependency on temperature and notes the geographical distribution mentioned in the text (oceans vs continents).

Solution Steps

  1. Step 1: Define relative humidity as the percentage of moisture present compared to full capacity at a given temperature.

  2. Step 2: Explain the relationship with temperature, noting that the air's ability to hold vapour depends on temperature.

  3. Step 3: State the geographical variation, noting it is greater over oceans and least over continents.

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