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Which of the following is the primary goal of passive solar design in a cold climate?

Select one option

Maximizing solar heat gain in winter and minimizing heat loss.

Reducing reliance on natural ventilation in summer.

Enhancing natural daylighting regardless of season.

Minimizing material costs through standardized components.

For wall insulation in a cold climate, which pair of materials typically offers the highest R-value per inch and good moisture resistance?

Select one option

Fiberglass batts and cellulose

Polystyrene (EPS/XPS) and mineral wool

Straw bales and concrete

Expanded perlite and vermiculite

What is the most effective site orientation strategy for maximizing passive solar gain for a building in the Northern Hemisphere's cold climate?

Select one option

Orienting the longest facade towards the north

Orienting the longest facade towards the east

Orienting the longest facade towards the south

Orienting the longest facade towards the west

In passive solar design for cold climates, properly designed roof overhangs are primarily used for what purpose?

Select one option

To prevent snow accumulation on south-facing windows.

To block high-angle summer sun while allowing low-angle winter sun to penetrate.

To provide shelter from prevailing winter winds.

To support vertical green walls for evaporative cooling.

When designing windows for a cold climate home with passive solar principles, which glazing strategy is most appropriate?

Select one option

Using single-pane clear glass for maximum light transmission.

Selecting high-performance, low-emissivity (Low-E) glazing with multiple panes and inert gas fills.

Minimizing window area on all facades to reduce heat loss.

Prioritizing aesthetic appeal over thermal performance for south-facing windows.

Thermal bridges significantly increase heat loss in building envelopes, especially in cold climates.

Select one option

True

False

In cold climates, vapor barriers should generally be placed on the warm side (interior side) of the insulation layer in wall assemblies.

Select one option

True

False

North-facing windows are ideal for maximizing passive solar heat gain in a cold climate in the Northern Hemisphere.

Select one option

True

False

Careful sealing of air leaks in the building envelope is often more critical for energy performance in cold climates than in temperate climates.

Select one option

True

False

10.

Snow accumulation on a well-insulated, flat roof always reduces its overall insulation value.

Select one option

True

False

11.

Explain the fundamental difference between 'direct gain' and 'indirect gain' passive solar systems, providing an example of each.

12.

What is the 'solar aspect ratio' and what role does it play in cold climate site planning?

13.

Discuss how an architect balances the use of thermal mass and insulation in a cold climate design for optimal energy performance and occupant comfort.

14.

You are tasked with designing a small family home in a cold climate (e.g., Latitude 50°N, characterized by high snowfall and long, harsh winters). Outline your key design decisions for this project, specifically addressing the following:

Site orientation and massing.
Window placement and sizing, including strategies for shading.
Material selection for walls, roof, and foundation, justifying choices based on thermal performance.
Comprehensive strategies for minimizing heat loss and maximizing solar gain.
Consideration for snow management and wind protection on the site and building.