Sidewalk Temperature Calculator

This calculator estimates the temperature of a sidewalk based on environmental conditions and material properties. It helps in determining when it's safe to walk on hot or cold surfaces.

Input Parameters

Calculation Results

Estimated Sidewalk Temperature

--°C
Enter the input parameters and click "Calculate" to see the estimated sidewalk temperature.

Calculation Formula

T_sidewalk = T_ambient + (S_r * α / 2) - (W * 0.5 * (T_sidewalk - T_ambient))

Where:
T_sidewalk = Estimated sidewalk temperature (°C)
T_ambient = Ambient temperature (°C)
S_r = Solar radiation (W/m²)
α = Absorption coefficient (material dependent)
W = Wind speed (km/h)

Sidewalk Temperature Calculator Calculator Usage Guide

Learn how to use the calculator to estimate sidewalk temperatures and stay safe.

How to Use This Calculator

  1. Enter the current ambient temperature (the temperature of the air around you).
  2. Input the solar radiation value, which you can find from weather forecasts or use an average of 800 W/m² for clear sunny days.
  3. Specify the time of day in 12-hour format (e.g., "3 PM").
  4. Select the material type of the sidewalk from the dropdown menu.
  5. Enter the wind speed to account for cooling effects.
  6. Click the "Calculate" button to see the estimated sidewalk temperature.

Understanding the Results

The calculator provides an estimated temperature of the sidewalk surface based on the inputs. The formula considers:

  • Solar heating of the surface
  • Material properties (how well different materials absorb and retain heat)
  • Wind cooling effects

Safety Guidelines

Based on the estimated temperature, here are some safety guidelines:

  • If the estimated temperature is < 15°C (59°F) colder than the ambient temperature, the sidewalk may be too cold for barefoot walking.
  • If the estimated temperature is > 25°C (77°F) warmer than the ambient temperature, exercise caution to prevent burns or heat-related discomfort.
  • The calculator provides estimates and actual surface temperatures may vary based on specific conditions not accounted for in this model.

Principles of Heat Transfer Used

This calculator uses a simplified model of heat transfer that considers:

  • Solar radiation absorption: Different materials absorb solar energy at different rates.
  • Conduction: Heat transfer from the air to the surface.
  • Convection: Heat loss due to wind blowing over the surface.
  • Thermal mass: How quickly materials heat up and cool down (simplified in this model).