MArch Master of Architecture Master of Architecture: Building Technology 5

Question 1

In a building's electrical distribution system, the main service entrance panel's primary function is to:

Accepted Answer

Receive utility power and distribute it to branch circuits via circuit breakers

Answer

The service entrance panel contains the main breaker and distributes incoming utility power to all branch circuits throughout the building.

Question 2

Which type of roof membrane system is mechanically fastened to the deck and left exposed to wind, relying on ballast or fasteners rather than adhesive bonding?

Accepted Answer

Mechanically attached single-ply membrane

Answer

Mechanically attached single-ply systems use fasteners and plates to secure the membrane to the substrate at seams rather than bonding across the entire surface.

Question 3

The purpose of a seismic base isolator in a building structure is to:

Accepted Answer

Decouple the superstructure from ground motion by allowing controlled horizontal movement at the foundation

Answer

Base isolators introduce a flexible layer at the foundation that absorbs and filters seismic energy before it reaches the structure above.

Question 4

Daylight autonomy (DA) as a lighting performance metric measures the percentage of:

Accepted Answer

Annual occupied hours when a target illuminance level is met by daylight alone

Answer

Daylight autonomy calculates, for each sensor point, the fraction of occupied hours per year when natural light alone meets or exceeds the target illuminance.

Question 5

In wood-frame construction, blocking installed between studs at mid-height of a wall assembly serves primarily to:

Accepted Answer

Provide nailing surface for horizontal siding and act as a fireblock to slow vertical flame spread

Answer

Mid-height blocking provides a nailing base for lap siding transitions and, critically, interrupts concealed wall cavities to prevent chimney-effect fire spread.

MArch Master of Architecture Practice Test

MArch Master of Architecture Practice Test

MArch Master of Architecture Master of Architecture: Building Technology 5