Temperature and Cognitive Performance: Evidence from Mental Arithmetic Training

Benjamin Krebs ()
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Benjamin Krebs: Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Environmental & Resource Economics, 2024, vol. 87, issue 7, No 12, 2035-2065

Abstract: Abstract With rising average temperatures and extreme heat events becoming more frequent, understanding the ramifications for cognitive performance is essential. I estimate the effect of outside air temperature on performance in mental arithmetic training games. Using data from 31,000 individuals and 1.15 million games played, I analyze frequent engagement in a cognitively challenging task in a non-stressful and familiar environment. I find that, above a threshold of 16.5 $$^{\circ }$$ ∘ C, a 1 $$^{\circ }$$ ∘ C increase in outside air temperature leads to a performance reduction of 0.13%. The effect is mostly driven by individuals living in relatively cold areas, who are less adapted to hot temperatures.

Keywords: Air temperature; Cognitive performance; Climate change (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: J24 Q54 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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DOI: 10.1007/s10640-024-00881-y

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