What does absolute humidity measure?

Absolute humidity specifically quantifies the amount of water vapor present in the air by measuring the mass of water vapor contained in a given volume of air. It is typically expressed in grams of water vapor per cubic meter of air. This measurement is essential as it provides a clear understanding of the actual water vapor content irrespective of the temperature or pressure conditions surrounding the air.

This parameter is crucial for meteorologists when analyzing weather patterns, humidity levels, and atmospheric processes. It differs from relative humidity, which compares the current water vapor content to the maximum amount of water vapor the air can hold at a given temperature, thus giving a percentage value. Absolute humidity offers a more direct view of the physical amount of moisture in the air, allowing for calculations that take into account variations in air density due to changes in temperature and pressure.