How do we measure air temperature?

September 24,2024

Air consists of gas molecules, which are combinations of two or more atoms. Although you cannot see them with your eyes, the molecules are constantly moving this way and that at very high speeds. As they move, they collide with one another and with solid surfaces. The temperature of the air is a measure of how quickly the molecules are moving. The more energy of motion the molecules have, the higher the temperature you feel in the air. Air temperature is measured with thermometers. Common thermometers consist of a glass rod with a very thin tube in it.