How to test air temperature
What is it? Air temperature is simply how hot or cold the outside air is.
Why is it important? Measuring environmental variables, like temperature, helps us understand the context of our other observations. The temperatures of the air and water are linked! If the air temperature is warmer, then water temperatures are often warmer as well. Warmer water can hold less dissolved oxygen and impacts other processes.
What does it mean? It depends! You’ll only get to know the significance of these results if you test consistently over time.
How to test
Place the thermometer in a shaded area out of direct sunlight about 1.5 m off the ground. Leave the thermometer for about 5 minutes before you record the measurement. Do not hang the thermometer around your neck while measuring because the heat from your body will affect the reading.
Pro Tip: Hang your thermometer from a tree while you complete your other tests! That way, it’s out of direct sunlight and away from your body; just remember to grab it before you leave your site!