Final answer:
The atmospheric pressure attributed to water vapor is called vapor pressure. Dew point is reached when air's vapor pressure equals saturation vapor pressure, and relative humidity measures the percentage of this saturation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Vapor pressure, a component of total atmospheric pressure, corresponds to the partial pressure attributed to water vapor. It represents the equilibrium between vapor and its liquid (or solid) phase. Saturation vapor pressure is attained when air holds the maximum water vapor at a given temperature. The temperature at which air's vapor pressure matches saturation vapor pressure, causing water condensation, is the dew point.
Relative humidity quantifies the current vapor pressure as a percentage of saturation vapor pressure, crucial for comprehending weather, climate, and environmental comfort. This interplay of vapor pressure, saturation, and relative humidity provides insights into atmospheric processes, influencing phenomena such as precipitation, cloud formation, and the human experience of weather conditions.
Understanding these principles is fundamental for meteorology, climate science, and optimizing living and working environments.