Effects of Conversion Algorithms on Reported Upper-Air Dewpoint Depressions

Abstract

Different nations use different algorithms or other techniques to convert temperatures and relative humidities from radiosonde observations to dewpoint depressions. Thus, it is possible for identical measured values to result in different reported dewpoints. On the basis of a sample of conversion methods, we calculate the possible differences among the national practices. In general, the discrepancies are not large and would often be lost in the usual round-off procedures associated with transmission over the Global Telecommunications System, but in cold, dry conditions dewpoints different by more than 1°C could be reported for identical conditions. Some of the methods have been changed over time, so there is also the possibility of inhomogeneities in climate records.