Time Constant

A time constant is the amount of time it takes for a meteorological sensor to respond to a rapid change in a measurand until it is measuring values within the accuracy tolerance usually expected of the sensor.

This most often applies to measurements of temperature, dewpoint temperature, humidity and air pressure. Radiosondes are especially affected due to their rapid increase in altitude.

Famous quotes containing the words time and/or constant:

    When her husband clutches at her dress,
    she lowers her face,
    her modesty aroused.
    When he wants a wild embrace,
    she shyly secrets away
    her limbs.
    She can’t say a word
    and bestows her gaze
    on her beaming friends.
    A new wife suffers
    with shame
    the first time she makes love.
    Amaru (c. seventh century A.D.)

    Our farmers round, well pleased with constant gain,
    Like other farmers, flourish and complain.
    George Crabbe (1754–1832)