Wet clothes dry more quickly in the sun than in the shade due to a combination of factors. Here are a few reasons:
Heat: The sun provides heat, which increases the temperature of the air and the clothes themselves. Higher temperatures promote the evaporation of water molecules from the fabric, thereby speeding up the drying process.
Air movement: When clothes are exposed to sunlight, the surrounding air tends to be drier and often has better air circulation. This movement of air helps carry away the water vapor released from the wet clothes, enhancing evaporation and drying.
Direct sunlight: Sunlight contains ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which has a powerful drying effect. UV radiation can break down the surface tension of water molecules, allowing them to evaporate more quickly from the fabric.
Relative humidity: In shaded areas, the air tends to be more humid due to the lack of direct sunlight. High humidity slows down evaporation because the air is already saturated with moisture. In contrast, sunlit areas generally have lower relative humidity, creating a more favorable environment for drying.
It's worth noting that drying times can still vary depending on factors like fabric type, thickness, and the amount of moisture present. Additionally, direct exposure to intense sunlight for prolonged periods may have some effects on certain fabrics, such as fading colors or weakening fibers, so it's important to consider garment care instructions as well.