Saturated Water Vapor Pressure Formula:
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Saturated water vapor pressure (e_s) is the pressure exerted by water vapor in thermodynamic equilibrium with its condensed phases at a given temperature. It represents the maximum amount of water vapor the air can hold at a specific temperature.
The calculator uses the Magnus formula:
Where:
Explanation: This empirical formula provides an accurate approximation of saturated vapor pressure over water for temperatures between -50°C and 60°C.
Details: Calculating saturated vapor pressure is essential in meteorology, HVAC design, industrial processes, and environmental science. It helps determine humidity levels, predict precipitation, and design climate control systems.
Tips: Enter temperature in degrees Celsius. The formula is valid for temperatures between -50°C and 60°C. For temperatures outside this range, specialized equations may be needed.
Q1: What's the difference between actual and saturated vapor pressure?
A: Actual vapor pressure is the current pressure of water vapor in air, while saturated vapor pressure is the maximum possible vapor pressure at a given temperature.
Q2: How does temperature affect saturated vapor pressure?
A: Saturated vapor pressure increases exponentially with temperature. Warmer air can hold significantly more water vapor than colder air.
Q3: Why is this calculation important for weather forecasting?
A: It helps determine relative humidity, dew point, and the likelihood of precipitation, fog, or cloud formation.
Q4: Are there different formulas for different temperature ranges?
A: Yes, specialized equations exist for very low temperatures (over ice) and very high temperatures, but the Magnus formula works well for most common applications.
Q5: How accurate is this formula?
A: The Magnus formula provides accuracy within 0.1% for temperatures between -30°C and 35°C, making it suitable for most practical applications.