Terminology check — “dehydration” versus “dehumidification”. Evaluate the statement: “Dehydration is the process of removing water vapour from the surrounding air.”

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: False

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Accurate HVAC terminology avoids confusion in design documents and operations. The removal of water vapour from air is a fundamental process in comfort and industrial air-conditioning, but the correct technical term matters.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • The process described targets moisture removal from air.
  • No restriction on method (cooling-based or desiccant-based).


Concept / Approach:
Removing water vapour from air is called dehumidification. “Dehydration” usually refers to removing water from materials (e.g., dehydrating salts, foods) or the physiological condition of a person. While desiccant wheels are sometimes informally said to “dehydrate” air, the accepted HVAC term is dehumidification.



Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify the object of moisture removal: ambient air.Correct HVAC term for moisture removal from air = dehumidification.Therefore, the statement equating this to “dehydration” is false.



Verification / Alternative check:
Psychrometric process nomenclature in standard texts uses “cooling and dehumidification” for coil-based moisture removal and “desiccant dehumidification” for sorption-based systems.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:
(a) is incorrect by terminology. (c) and (d) add irrelevant conditions. (e) saturation is not a prerequisite; dehumidification can occur at many relative humidities.



Common Pitfalls:
Using lay terms in technical settings; precise vocabulary ensures clear communication among engineers.



Final Answer:
False


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