12/15 12 — Environmental and Building Systems Free Online FlashCards

How do conduction, convection, and radiation differ?

Conduction transfers heat through a material, convection moves heat with a fluid, and radiation transfers heat as electromagnetic energy.

Why must air sealing be coordinated with ventilation?

Air sealing reduces uncontrolled leakage, but deliberate ventilation is still needed to supply outdoor air, dilute pollutants, and remove moisture and odors.

When does condensation occur?

Condensation occurs when water vapor becomes liquid after a surface falls below the dew point.

Why does glazing orientation affect solar control?

South-facing glazing in the Northern Hemisphere can admit useful winter sunlight and be shaded against high summer sun; east and west glazing is harder to shade from low-angle sunlight.

What is the difference between absorption and isolation?

Sound absorption reduces reflected sound within a room, while sound isolation limits sound transmission between spaces or through building assemblies.

What does a plumbing vent do?

A plumbing vent admits air to drainage pipes and protects trap seals from pressure changes.

What is the function of a branch circuit?

A branch circuit carries electricity from distribution equipment to served receptacles, equipment, or lighting.

How does a heat pump provide heating and cooling?

A heat pump moves heat rather than creating it directly: it transfers heat indoors for heating and reverses the process for cooling.

What are the major layers of fire safety?

The fire-safety layers are prevention, detection, notification, containment, suppression, smoke control, egress, and emergency response.

What is an accessible route?

An accessible route is a continuous, unobstructed path connecting accessible spaces and elements.

What is passive-first design?

Passive-first design reduces loads through orientation, shading, envelope improvements, daylighting, and natural ventilation before selecting efficient active systems.

What is a thermal bridge?

A thermal bridge is a relatively conductive path through an otherwise insulated assembly, such as a steel beam, balcony slab, or metal fastener.