Humidity and Temperature

Self-evaluation quiz

Question 1.

Which of the following statements are false?

a) Extremes of temperature and relative humidity can cause damage to objects in museums, galleries and libraries.

b) Most insects and mould thrive in warmer conditions.

c) Relative humidity and temperature are closely related.

d) Relative humidity can affect the comfort of people in museums, galleries and libraries, but won't affect the collections.

Question 2.

In high relative humidity conditions:

a) bark paintings dry out and crack;

b) dyes and textiles fade and deteriorate quickly;

c) moulds become too wet to grow;

d) mounted vellums become taut.

Question 3.

Rapid fluctuations of relative humidity:

a) subject materials to constant movement as they absorb moisture and give it out again;

b) can cause extreme damage;

c) can alter the chemical composition of some minerals;

d) should be avoided;

e) all of the above.

Question 4.

If a collection has become conditioned to an extreme environment, you should:

a) alter the environment to meet the recommended ideal conditions because this will be better for the collection;

b) concentrate your efforts on maintaining a stable environment;

c) send the collection to a more moderate climate;

d) none of the above.

Question 5.

Relative humidity is a comparison between:

a) water in the air and temperature;

b) the amount of water-vapour in the air at different temperatures;

c) the amount of water-vapour in the air and the total amount of water-vapour that the air can hold at a particular temperature;

d) the humidity inside relative to the humidity outside.

Question 6.

Which of the following statements are true?

a) Changes in temperature can often lead to significant alterations in relative humidity.

b) People have no effect on relative humidity and temperature levels in museums, galleries and libraries.

c) If the temperature inside a sealed box drops, the relative humidity inside the box will be raised.

d) Display cases have 0% relative humidity.

Question 7.

The climates which are relevant to objects in museums, galleries and libraries are:

a) microclimates;

b) the climates within their storage and display areas;

c) the regional climate;

d) the climate in the building in which they are stored;

e) all of the above.

Question 8.

In warm, humid conditions:

a) good ventilation and air flow help to prevent mould outbreaks;

b) you should shut all doors and windows to prevent mould spores entering the building;

c) dehumidifiers should be used to dry the air;

d) seal your objects in plastic.

Question 9.

To protect important objects from fluctuations in relative humidity and temperature, you should:

a) provide them with layers of storage;

b) ensure the building is well maintained;

c) get air-conditioning installed;

d) buy a steam generator.

Question 10.

Layers of storage to protect against fluctuations and extremes of relative humidity can be created by:

a) placing items in storage boxes;

b) interleaving or wrapping objects;

c) placing items in display cases for exhibition;

d) mounting and framing;

e) all of the above;

f) combinations of the above.