Which statement best describes the temperature in air with high relative humidity?

Study for the Earth Science Regents Exam. Dive into flashcards and multiple-choice questions, complete with hints and explanations. Prepare confidently for your exam!

High relative humidity indicates that the air is saturated with moisture, which affects how we perceive temperature. When relative humidity is high, the body's ability to cool itself through the evaporation of sweat is reduced. This is because the air is already holding a significant amount of water vapor, making it harder for sweat to evaporate. Consequently, this lack of evaporative cooling can create a feeling of warmth, even if the actual temperature may not be significantly high.

For example, on a hot, humid day, the high moisture content in the air can make the temperature feel much warmer than it actually is. This is often experienced as discomfort, which reinforces the perception that humid air feels warmer. Understanding the relationship between humidity and temperature is crucial for interpreting weather conditions and their impacts on human comfort.

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