The percent of moisture absorbed in the air compared to the maximum amount possible is known as what?

Relative humidity is defined as the percent of moisture absorbed in the air compared to the maximum amount of moisture the air can hold at a specific temperature. It is a crucial concept in understanding how humidity affects comfort levels, building performance, and energy efficiency in multifamily buildings.

When air holds water vapor, it can vary significantly based on temperature; warmer air can hold more moisture than cooler air. Therefore, relative humidity provides a valuable measure that helps indicate how "full" the air is with moisture at a given temperature. For instance, if the relative humidity is 100%, the air is fully saturated with moisture, and at lower percentages, it is less saturated. This measurement is important for managing indoor air quality and building conditions, as too much moisture can lead to issues such as mold growth and damage to building materials.

Understanding relative humidity allows multifamily building analysts to make better decisions about heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, as well as how to maintain comfortable and healthy living environments for occupants.