How does the table’s surface temperature behave under direct sunlight?

When a table is placed under direct sunlight, its surface temperature undergoes significant and rapid change. The primary driver is solar radiation, a form of electromagnetic energy that is absorbed by the table's material and converted into heat. This process causes the surface temperature to rise substantially above the ambient air temperature.

The extent of this temperature increase is not uniform and depends on several key factors. The table's material is the most critical determinant. Dark-colored surfaces, especially those made of metals like wrought iron or dark composite plastics, absorb a high percentage of solar radiation and can become extremely hot to the touch, often reaching temperatures 40°F (22°C) or more above the surrounding air. In contrast, light-colored materials, such as light wood or white-painted metal, reflect more sunlight and experience a more moderate temperature rise.

Other influencing variables include the intensity and angle of the sunlight, which vary by time of day and season, and the duration of exposure. A table in midday summer sun will heat up much faster and to a higher peak temperature than one in the milder morning light. Environmental conditions like wind speed and ambient humidity also play a role in how quickly heat dissipates from the surface.

This heating behavior has practical implications. For outdoor furniture, it affects comfort, safety, and material longevity. Understanding these thermal dynamics can guide better choices in furniture placement, the use of protective covers or umbrellas, and the selection of materials suited to a specific climate, ensuring both functionality and durability in sunny environments.