Air temperature

What is Air temperature?

Air temperature is a measure of how hot or cold the air is, typically expressed in degrees Celsius (°C) or Fahrenheit (°F).

Air temperature is one of the most fundamental aspects of weather and climate, determining weather conditions, agricultural productivity, and energy consumption. 

Air temperature is influenced by several environmental and geographical factors, including the time and location of measurement. The temperature can change as a result of the Earth's axial tilt, causing temperature variations in different regions throughout the year and leading to distinct shifts between seasons and location.

Beside, key factors affecting air temperature include:

  • Sunlight (solar radiation): The primary source of heat for the Earth's atmosphere. Areas receiving more direct sunlight (like the equator) tend to be warmer than areas receiving less (like the poles).
  • Altitude: Higher elevations generally have lower temperatures because air pressure and density decrease with altitude, reducing the ability of the atmosphere to retain heat.
  • Cloud cover: Clouds influence temperature by trapping heat at night, keeping temperatures warmer, or by blocking sunlight during the day, making it cooler.
  • Wind and air masses: Moving air masses transport warm or cold air across different regions, causing fluctuations in local temperatures.

By understanding these factors, we can better predict weather patterns, prepare for climate variations, and manage temperature-related challenges in various sectors, such as agriculture, energy, and urban planning.

Alternate names:

Atmospheric temperature

Ambient temperature

Current temperature