Climatic Factors - Humidity

It is the amount of water vapour present in the atmosphere. It can be measured by an Hygrometer. Humidity is greatly affected by intensity of solar radiation, temperature, altitude, wind exposure, cover and water status of soil. High temperatures increases the capacity of air to retain moisture and results in lower relative humidity. Low temperatures result in relatively higher humidity by decreasing the capacity of air for moisture and reaches 100% or saturation point. Further cooling results in condensation of vapour into water and this moisture point is called dew point.

Temperature and Precipitation Determine Biome Types

Humidity plays an important role in plants and animals.

• It promotes the growth of epiphytes.

Example: Orchids and other plants which support the animal life

• It regulates the evaporation of water from the body of land organisms during transpiration and perspiration.

• It promotes the germination of spores in fungi.