Eli5: How do electronics measure Temperature and Humidity?
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Usually by varying the amount of current flowing inside a circuit by using materials whose resistance changes based on heat and temperature.
Current (Amps) is the measurement of how fast electrons are moving inside an electrical circuit.
Resistance (Ohms) is the measurement of how much the flow of electrons is being resisted.
By using a device called a *thermistor* we can measure temperature. Thermistors are made of a material that becomes more/less electrically resistive based on its temperature. So, when it’s warmer, the thermistor might let more current through an electrical circuit than when it’s cold. Measuring the current in the circuit will allow you to also know the temperature.
By using a device called a *resistive hygrometer* we can do the same for humidity. These are devices that increase/decrease current flow based on humidity.
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