How does temperature affect air density?

Temperature has a significant impact on air density, primarily due to the behavior of air molecules. As temperature increases, air molecules gain kinetic energy and move faster, causing them to spread apart. This results in a decrease in air density, as the same volume of air now contains fewer air molecules. Conversely, at lower temperatures, the kinetic energy of the molecules decreases, leading them to come closer together and thus increasing the density of the air.

In summary, cold air is denser than warm air because the molecules are more tightly packed at lower temperatures, while warmer air allows these molecules to disperse further apart. This understanding is crucial in fields such as meteorology and aviation, as it influences weather patterns and aircraft performance.