BArch Bachelor of Architecture Environmental Design and Sustainability

Question 1

Which passive solar design strategy uses thermal mass to absorb heat during the day and release it at night?

Accepted Answer

Indirect gain (Trombe wall)

Answer

The indirect gain Trombe wall places a massive thermal storage wall behind south-facing glazing; it absorbs solar energy by day and slowly radiates it inward at night.

Question 2

What is the primary purpose of a 'cool roof' coating in warm climates?

Accepted Answer

Reflect solar radiation to reduce heat gain

Answer

Cool roof coatings have high solar reflectance and thermal emittance, reducing roof surface temperatures and cutting cooling energy loads.

Question 3

In the US, which rating system is most widely used to certify sustainable building design?

Accepted Answer

LEED

Answer

LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), developed by the US Green Building Council, is the most widely adopted green building certification system in the US.

Question 4

Which orientation of a building's long axis is generally preferred for passive solar performance in the northern hemisphere?

Accepted Answer

East–West

Answer

Orienting the long axis east–west maximizes south-facing façade exposure to winter sun while minimizing east and west exposures prone to overheating.

Question 5

What does the term 'embodied carbon' refer to in sustainable architecture?

Accepted Answer

GHG emissions from material extraction, manufacturing, and construction

Answer

Embodied carbon encompasses the greenhouse gas emissions associated with producing, transporting, and installing building materials across the supply chain.

BArch Bachelor of Architecture Practice Test

BArch Bachelor of Architecture Practice Test

BArch Bachelor of Architecture Environmental Design and Sustainability