What term describes the temperature at which moisture in the air begins to condense?

The term that describes the temperature at which moisture in the air begins to condense is the dew point. The dew point is a key concept in understanding atmospheric moisture and refrigeration processes. As air cools, it can hold less water vapor; when it reaches the dew point, the air becomes saturated, and moisture starts to condense into liquid water. This process is crucial in various applications, including HVAC systems, where controlling humidity is essential for comfort and efficiency.

Understanding the dew point helps in various practical scenarios, such as predicting weather conditions, managing condensation in refrigeration systems, and maintaining appropriate humidity levels in indoor environments. It is a critical parameter in refrigeration and air conditioning design because it helps determine the conditions under which condensation occurs on surfaces and within duct systems.