What does the Wet Bulb Temperature (WBT) utilize in its measurement?

The Wet Bulb Temperature (WBT) is measured using a thermometer that has a wet wick around its bulb, which is then swung or moved through the air. This method allows for the measurement of humidity and evaporation effects on temperature. The wet wick provides the necessary surface for evaporation to occur, which cools the thermometer and thus indicates a lower temperature than that of the surrounding air when humidity is high.

This measurement captures the cooling effect of evaporation, making it crucial for determining heat stress conditions, especially in athletic training contexts. It’s important to note that a dry wick or simply using other thermometer placements would not accurately reflect the cooling effects of moisture in the air, which is why these alternatives would not yield the correct measurement for WBT.