Home Back

How To Calculate Saturation Vapor Pressure

Magnus Formula:

\[ e_s = 6.112 \times \exp\left(\frac{17.67 \times T}{T + 243.5}\right) \]

°C

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From: To:

1. What is Saturation Vapor Pressure?

Saturation vapor pressure is the pressure exerted by a vapor in thermodynamic equilibrium with its condensed phases at a given temperature. It represents the maximum amount of water vapor that air can hold at a specific temperature.

2. How Does the Magnus Formula Work?

The calculator uses the Magnus formula:

\[ e_s = 6.112 \times \exp\left(\frac{17.67 \times T}{T + 243.5}\right) \]

Where:

Explanation: The Magnus formula is an empirical relationship that accurately estimates saturation vapor pressure over water for temperatures between -45°C and 60°C.

3. Importance of Saturation Vapor Pressure Calculation

Details: Saturation vapor pressure is crucial in meteorology, climatology, and various engineering applications. It helps determine humidity levels, predict weather patterns, and design HVAC systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter temperature in degrees Celsius. The calculator will compute the saturation vapor pressure in hectopascals (hPa).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the range of validity for the Magnus formula?
A: The Magnus formula is valid for temperatures between -45°C and 60°C over water surfaces.

Q2: How does saturation vapor pressure change with temperature?
A: Saturation vapor pressure increases exponentially with temperature. Warmer air can hold significantly more water vapor than colder air.

Q3: What are typical values of saturation vapor pressure?
A: At 0°C: ~6.11 hPa, at 20°C: ~23.39 hPa, at 40°C: ~73.78 hPa.

Q4: How is this different from actual vapor pressure?
A: Saturation vapor pressure is the maximum possible, while actual vapor pressure is the current amount of water vapor present in the air.

Q5: Why is saturation vapor pressure important in weather forecasting?
A: It helps determine relative humidity, dew point, and is crucial for predicting cloud formation, precipitation, and various weather phenomena.

How To Calculate Saturation Vapor Pressure© - All Rights Reserved 2025