Fog

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Fog is a complex atmospheric phenomenon. It is a visible aerosol consisting of tiny water droplets or ice crystals suspended in the air at or near the Earth's surface. Fog can be considered a type of low-lying cloud and is heavily influenced by nearby bodies of water, topography, and wind conditions.

Overview[edit | edit source]

Fog forms when the difference between air temperature and dew point is less than 2.5 °C or 4 °F. Fog begins to form when water vapor condenses into tiny liquid water droplets that are suspended in the air.

Types of Fog[edit | edit source]

There are several types of fog, each with its own unique characteristics and formation processes. These include:

  • Radiation fog which is formed by the cooling of land after sunset by thermal radiation in calm conditions with clear sky.
  • Advection fog which occurs when moist air passes over a cool surface by advection (wind) and is cooled.
  • Evaporation fog which is caused by cold air passing over warmer water or moist land.
  • Freezing fog which is any kind of fog where the droplets freeze into very tiny crystals of ice in midair.

Health Effects[edit | edit source]

While fog itself is not harmful, it can significantly reduce visibility, making driving conditions dangerous. It can also exacerbate respiratory conditions in some individuals.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


Fog Resources
Wikipedia
WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD