What is a psychrometer used for?

A psychrometer is specifically designed to measure the humidity of the air by utilizing two thermometers: one that is dry and one that is moistened. By comparing the readings from both thermometers, it can help assess the moisture content of the air, which is essential for calculating the heat index. The heat index is an important factor in sports medicine, as it indicates how hot it feels to the human body when relative humidity is factored in with the actual air temperature. This information is crucial for preventing heat-related illnesses in athletes by providing a better understanding of environmental conditions during physical activities.