The dew point is the temperature at which dew forms. This happens when the air temperature cools enough for the humidity in the air to condense and form water droplets. A similar principle causes rain, but dew forms at ground level and thus never falls. While the dew point is a relatively simple concept, calculating it requires a moderately difficult mathematical formula. However, there is a home method that will yield a good estimate of the dew point without any math.
- Ice
- Metal can
- Thermometer
- Salt
- Water
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Instructions
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1
Fill a metal can with water and add a pinch of salt. The salt will help melt the ice you will add and speed the cooling process.
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2
Add ice cubes one at a time, stirring the water with the thermometer. Wait until the temperature settles after each ice cube before adding the next one. This will keep the surface of the can at the same temperature as the water inside.
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3
When condensation appears on the outside of the can, read the temperature on the thermometer. This is the approximate dew point.