A Stevenson screen, which is used in meteorology for measuring temperature and humidity, has several key characteristics:
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Double-Walled Construction: The Stevenson screen is constructed with double walls that help insulate the interior from external temperature influences. This design minimizes the effects of solar radiation and wind, providing more accurate measurements of the air temperature.
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Ventilation: The screen is equipped with louvered sides that allow for free circulation of air. This ensures that the instruments inside are exposed to the ambient air while protecting them from direct sunlight and precipitation, allowing for reliable readings.
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Elevated Position: The Stevenson screen is typically mounted on a stand about 1.2 to 2 meters above the ground. This elevation helps to avoid heat from the ground or other surfaces, ensuring that the temperature readings reflect the true atmospheric conditions.
These characteristics contribute to the Stevenson screen's effectiveness in collecting accurate meteorological data.