Re: [Paddlewise] Taking Water Temps

From: Michael Daly <michaeldaly_at_rogers.com>
Date: Fri, 5 Jul 2002 13:34:00 -0400
From: "Michael Daly" <michaeldaly_at_rogers.com>

> I've never done anything like this, but I will mention that moving the thermometer
> will result in slightly different temperatures than keeping it still - think of 
> wind chill.

I want to clarify this - there's a bias in my thinking where I think of the 
thermometer initially at air temp with air temp higher than water temp.
This need not be the case and the comment on wind chill might make you
think that the moving thermometer would record a colder temp.

The thermometer has to reach equilibrium with the water.  A moving thermometer
will reach equilibrium faster than one that is static, since the moving water
will either carry away heat (warmer thermometer) or add heat (colder thermometer)
more quickly.  If you take a temp reading quickly, a moving thermometer will be
more accurate.  If you leave it immersed long enough, it doesn't matter.

Since you are dragging it for 10 minutes, you're likely getting a good reading.
The problem of depth still remains.

Mike

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Received on Fri Jul 05 2002 - 10:34:01 PDT

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