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:

    “Everyone is desirous of his own pursuits, and loves
    To spend his time in his accustomed art.”
    —Ovid (Publius Ovidius Naso)

    “Sigh no more Ladies, sigh no more
    Men were deceivers ever,
    One foote in Sea, and one on shore,
    To one thing constant never,”
    —William Shakespeare (1564–1616)