An article in the February 2004 issue of Bee Culture talks about the several
merits of follower boards, but one claimed benefit has me stumped.  Perhaps
someone of the list can clarify what is going on.  Italics are mine.



The author states ".when follower boards have been installed in positions 1
and 10 the center of the hive is significantly insulated from the colder
sides.'  (True, so far.) 'This difference of temperature encourages a
movement of convection that drives the moisture produced by the bees into
the gaps that separate the follower boards from the sides of hive and away
from the cluster.' 'Most of the water vapor condenses against the sides of
the hives and does not shower the hives."



Convection, I think, is Physics 101.  The author is maintaining that warm
moist air does not rise but somehow is 'driven' toward the sides of the hive
next to the follower boards.  Why the sides of the hive, and not the ends
(which are not adjacent to anything similar to a follower board) is not
discussed. Is there any possibility he is correct?

Lloyd
Lloyd Spear, Owner Ross Rounds, Inc.
Manufacturers of Ross Rounds Comb
Honey Equipment, Sundance Pollen Traps
and Custom Printer of Sundance Labels.

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