Editing Dew (section)

== Occurrence ==
Adequate cooling of the surface typically takes place when it loses more energy by [[infrared]] [[radiation]] than it receives as [[solar radiation]] from the [[Sun]], which is especially the case on clear nights. Poor [[thermal conductivity]] restricts the replacement of such losses from deeper ground layers, which are typically warmer at night.<ref name=":0" /> Preferred objects of dew formation are thus poor conducting or well isolated from the ground, and non-metallic, while shiny metal coated surfaces are poor infrared radiators. Preferred weather conditions include the absence of clouds and little water [[vapor]] in the higher atmosphere to minimize greenhouse effects and sufficient humidity of the air near the ground. Typical dew nights are classically considered calm, because the wind transports (nocturnally) warmer air from higher levels to the cold surface. However, if the atmosphere is the major source of moisture (this type is called dewfall), a certain amount of ventilation is needed to replace the vapor that is already condensed. The highest optimum wind speeds could be found on arid islands. Wind always seems adverse, however, if the wet soil beneath is the major source of vapor (in which case dew is said to form by [[distillation]]).

The processes of dew formation do not restrict its occurrence to the night and the outdoors. They are also working when eyeglasses get steamy in a warm, wet room or in industrial processes. However, the term [[condensation]] is preferred in these cases.