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:

    But ancient insolence is wont to bear an insolence that has its youth among human miseries, sooner or later, when the fixed time of birth is come.
    Aeschylus (525–456 B.C.)

    Love not me for comely grace,
    For my pleasing eye or face,
    Nor for any outward part:
    No, nor for a constant heart!
    —Unknown. Love Not Me for Comely Grace (l. 1–4)