Thermal Design and Solar Geometry

A set of flashcards covering key terminology and concepts related to thermal exchanges, passive solar design, and solar geometry as discussed in the lecture.

Thermal exchanges

The various ways in which heat is transferred between a building and the surrounding environment.

Envelope-Dominated Buildings

Buildings where indoor temperature is primarily controlled by the outdoor climate interacting with the building's walls, roof, and windows.

Internally Dominated Buildings

Buildings where indoor temperature is mainly controlled by heat generated inside from occupants, lights, and equipment.

Balance Point Temperature

The outdoor temperature at which a building's internal heat gains equal its heat loss through the envelope.

Solar Heat Gain

The amount of solar energy that enters a building, which can be affected by factors such as orientation and shading.

Direct-Gain Systems

Systems in which each south-facing window directly allows solar energy to enter and warm the interior.

Greenhouse Effect

The physical phenomenon where short-wave solar energy enters a space but long-wave heat is trapped, preventing it from escaping.

Passive Solar

A design approach that utilizes solar energy for heating and lighting without mechanical devices, relying on building elements to function.

Thermal Mass

Materials that can absorb, store, and release heat, helping to stabilize indoor temperatures.

Evaporative Cooling

A process where water absorbs heat as it evaporates, providing a cooling effect in buildings.