Why does it feel colder in front of a fan than it does behind it?

Question

Isn't there the same amount of airflow on both sides of the fan? If so, why does it feel dramatically colder in front of the fan? Is it because of turbulence?

Answer 1

The air from the front is directed in a narrow path, and thus is more intense than the air in the rear, which is pulled in from a wider area.

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Answer 2

I like Bill's answer.

I have a different take on it.

As you sit around, your body is giving off heat and the air around you is heated. In front of the fan the air is being pushed away from you and replaced by the air behind the fan.

IF the room temperature is cooler than your body temperature, then the fan will be replacing that warmer air with unheated cooler air. You will feel cooler being in the cooler air. Your body then has an opportunity to throw off more heat and it will be blown away.

IF you are sweating, the moving air will make you feel even cooler.