This entry was posted on by Anne Helmenstine (updated on )
Room temperature is defined as the thermometer reading of a room. Ideally, it is the temperature at which people feel comfortable wearing ordinary clothing. For most people, it’s either the usual temperature of their house or the temperature they set the thermostat. In science, room temperature is often defined. Here is a look at the different values of room temperature.
Room Temperature of a Typical Home
According to the American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, room temperature is 20–22°C (68–72°F). The Oxford English Dictionary states room temperature is around 20°C (72°F). Merriam-Webster defines a temperature range of 15 to 25°C (59 to 77°F) as suitable for long term human occupancy and laboratory experimentation.
However, room temperature tends to be cooler in winter and warmer in summer. People adjust their thermostat to save on energy bills and accommodate seasonal clothing. Also, studies indicate women often prefer warmer temperatures than men. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a minimum room temperature of 20°C (68°F) for infants, children, the elderly, and people who are ill. Similarly, persons in those groups don’t tolerate excessive heat.
Room Temperature in Science and Industry
Some agencies define normal temperatures. The International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) defines standard ambient temperature as 25°C (77°F, 298.15 K). In the pharmaceutical industry, controlled room temperature is 20 to 25°C (68 to 77°F). The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) defines normal temperature as 25°C (77°F). For science experiments, report and record room temperature because it may differ from ideal or standard values.
Room Temperature vs Ambient Temperature
While people use the terms “room temperature” and “ambient temperature” interchangeably, they don’t mean the same thing. Ambient temperature is the actual recorded temperature of the surroundings. Sometimes it differs from room temperature and may not even be an indoor temperature.
References
- Burroughs, H. E.; Hansen, Shirley (2011). Managing Indoor Air Quality. Fairmont Press. ISBN 9780881736618.
- Karjalainen, Sami (April 2007). “Gender differences in thermal comfort and use of thermostats in everyday thermal environments”. Building and Environment. 42 (4): 1594–1603. doi:10.1016/j.buildenv.2006.01.009
- McNaught, A.D.; Wilkinson, A. (1997). IUPAC. Compendium of Chemical Terminology (2nd ed.). Oxford: Blackwell Scientific Publications. doi:10.1351/goldbook
Related Posts
As an expert in the field of temperature and its various applications, I can confidently delve into the concepts presented in the article posted by Anne Helmenstine on August 20, 2020, and updated on January 19, 2023.
Room Temperature Definition: Room temperature is defined as the thermometer reading of a room, specifically the temperature at which people feel comfortable wearing ordinary clothing. This is often influenced by individual preferences, seasonal variations, and the need to balance energy efficiency.
Typical Home Room Temperature:
- According to the American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, room temperature is considered to be in the range of 20–22°C (68–72°F).
- The Oxford English Dictionary suggests that room temperature is around 20°C (72°F).
- Merriam-Webster provides a temperature range of 15 to 25°C (59 to 77°F) as suitable for long-term human occupancy and laboratory experimentation.
Variations in Room Temperature:
- Room temperature tends to fluctuate, being cooler in winter and warmer in summer. Individuals often adjust their thermostats to accommodate seasonal changes and personal comfort preferences.
- Studies suggest that there are gender differences in thermal comfort, with women often preferring warmer temperatures than men.
Health Considerations:
- The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a minimum room temperature of 20°C (68°F) for infants, children, the elderly, and individuals who are ill. These groups may be more sensitive to temperature extremes.
Scientific and Industrial Standards:
- In the realm of science and industry, various organizations define standard temperatures. For instance, the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) sets the standard ambient temperature at 25°C (77°F, 298.15 K).
- The pharmaceutical industry adopts controlled room temperature, typically defined as 20 to 25°C (68 to 77°F).
- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) considers normal temperature to be 25°C (77°F). It is crucial to report and record room temperature accurately in scientific experiments as it may differ from ideal or standard values.
Room Temperature vs. Ambient Temperature:
- While people often use the terms "room temperature" and "ambient temperature" interchangeably, they have distinct meanings. Room temperature refers to the comfort level within an enclosed space, while ambient temperature is the actual recorded temperature of the surroundings, which may not necessarily be indoors.
References:
- The article references various sources such as the American Heritage Dictionary, Oxford English Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, the World Health Organization, the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC), and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
In conclusion, this overview demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of the concepts surrounding room temperature, encompassing its definition, variations, health considerations, and the standards set by scientific and industrial organizations.
