Gas Fitter Practice Test

If the relative humidity of a room is increased, what must happen to maintain the same level of comfort?

1. The temperature must decrease

2. The temperature must increase

3. The temperature remains unchanged

4. The humidity must decrease

The correct answer is: The temperature must increase

When the relative humidity of a room increases, it means that the air is holding more moisture. In humid conditions, the body's natural cooling mechanism, which relies on the evaporation of sweat, becomes less effective. This is because the increased moisture in the air reduces the evaporation rate, making it feel warmer than it actually is. To maintain the same level of comfort in a more humid environment, the air temperature typically needs to be elevated. This can seem counterintuitive, but by raising the temperature, the air can hold more moisture without feeling oppressively humid, which can help to improve comfort levels. While it may seem logical to think about decreasing humidity to improve comfort, in fact, raising the temperature can counterbalance the increase in humidity, allowing the body to feel more comfortable. This understanding highlights the interplay between temperature and humidity in achieving thermal comfort in indoor environments.