MArch Master of Architecture Environmental Systems & Sustainability

Question 1

In the US, which rating system is most widely used to certify the sustainability and energy performance of new commercial and institutional buildings?

Accepted Answer

LEED

Answer

LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), developed by the US Green Building Council, is the predominant green building certification system in the United States.

Question 2

Passive solar design strategies orient buildings to maximize solar heat gain in winter while minimizing it in summer primarily through:

Accepted Answer

South-facing glazing with appropriate overhangs sized to the building's latitude

Answer

South-facing glazing captures low winter sun, while properly sized overhangs block the higher summer sun, reducing both heating and cooling loads passively.

Question 3

What is the primary purpose of a 'thermal mass' element such as a concrete slab or masonry wall in passive building design?

Accepted Answer

To absorb, store, and slowly release heat, moderating interior temperature swings

Answer

High-density thermal mass materials absorb heat during warm periods and release it slowly during cool periods, reducing peak heating and cooling loads.

Question 4

In HVAC design, what does 'VAV' stand for, and what is its primary advantage in commercial buildings?

Accepted Answer

Variable Air Volume; it adjusts airflow to each zone based on demand, saving energy

Answer

Variable Air Volume systems modulate the volume of conditioned air delivered to each zone, using less energy than constant-volume systems by supplying only what is needed.

Question 5

The 'stack effect' in naturally ventilated buildings refers to which phenomenon?

Accepted Answer

The buoyancy-driven movement of warm air rising and escaping through high openings, drawing fresh air in at low openings

Answer

The stack effect exploits the density difference between warm interior air and cooler exterior air to create natural ventilation without mechanical assistance.

MArch Master of Architecture Practice Test

MArch Master of Architecture Practice Test

MArch Master of Architecture Environmental Systems & Sustainability