Why does a Stevenson screen have slats?

Why does a Stevenson screen have slats?

• A. To allow air to circulate easily
• B. To let rain in
• C. To support instruments
• D. To increase heat retention

Answer: (A)

Slats are there to let air move freely around the thermometers inside. By providing openings on all sides, the screen maintains ventilation so the instruments measure the true ambient air temperature rather than being warmed by the sun or heated by stagnant air inside a solid box. The design also helps shed rain and keeps the interior shaded, so readings stay representative of the surrounding environment.

Slats are there to let air move freely around the thermometers inside. By providing openings on all sides, the screen maintains ventilation so the instruments measure the true ambient air temperature rather than being warmed by the sun or heated by stagnant air inside a solid box. The design also helps shed rain and keeps the interior shaded, so readings stay representative of the surrounding environment.