Diurnal temperature variation

Diurnal temperature variation is the variation between a high temperature and a low temperature that occurs during the same day.

Overview

Diurnal temperature variation is a meteorological phenomenon that involves the change in temperature between the daily maximum and minimum temperatures. This variation is generally due to factors such as the angle of the sun, cloud cover, elevation, and the presence of bodies of water.

Factors affecting diurnal temperature variation

Several factors can affect the diurnal temperature variation:

• Sun: The angle of the sun plays a significant role in diurnal temperature variation. The higher the sun in the sky, the more direct the sunlight, and the warmer the temperature.

• Cloud cover: Clouds can reduce diurnal temperature variation by reflecting sunlight during the day and trapping heat at night.

• Elevation: Higher elevations tend to have greater diurnal temperature variations due to the thinner atmosphere and less ability to retain heat.

• Bodies of water: Large bodies of water can moderate diurnal temperature variation by absorbing heat during the day and releasing it at night.

Effects of diurnal temperature variation

Diurnal temperature variation can have several effects:

• Weather: Diurnal temperature variation can influence weather patterns, including the formation of clouds and precipitation.

• Agriculture': Diurnal temperature variation can affect plant growth and development, as well as pest and disease incidence.

• Human health: Extreme diurnal temperature variations can have health impacts, including heat stress and respiratory problems.

See also

• Climate
• Meteorology
• Temperature