BC Ch. 13 Terms

Questions and Answers

What are biopolymers in construction materials?

A synthetic insulating material

Plastics made from nonrenewable sources like oil

Naturally produced plastics from renewable, living sources such as starches and wood (correct)

A type of metal used in structural beams

What are building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV)?

PV systems incorporated into the building itself, such as PV shingles or wall panel systems (correct)

Wind turbines integrated into building design

Solar panels installed only on rooftops

A type of thermal insulation

What is cob in construction?

A synthetic plastic material

A type of concrete mix

A metal alloy used in structural beams

A composite material made of clay, straw, sand, and earth, similar to adobe (correct)

What is gray water?

Wastewater from industrial processes, laundries, and other sources Signup and view all the answers

What is a green roof?

A roof intentionally covered with vegetation Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of an inverter in a PV system?

To convert direct current (DC) produced by solar panels into alternating current (AC) Signup and view all the answers

Which material is characterized as renewable and used in biopolymers?

Starches and wood from living sources Signup and view all the answers

How does a green roof affect urban environments?

Reduces the urban heat island effect Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of an inverter in a photovoltaic system?

To convert direct current (DC) into alternating current (AC) Signup and view all the answers

What defines off-grid systems in photovoltaic systems?

PV systems not connected to a traditional public electrical grid Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes structural insulated panels (SIPs)?

Wall assemblies made with a core of polyurethane and without studs Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following does structural insulated sheathing (SIS) provide in construction?

Structural stabilization, insulation, and a moisture barrier Signup and view all the answers

What is the alternate term for sustainable construction?

Green construction Signup and view all the answers

What is a Trombe wall used for?

Glass exterior panels and concrete block wall with a void for passive solar heating Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Biopolymers

Biopolymers are naturally produced plastics derived from renewable resources like starches and wood, making them sustainable alternatives to conventional plastics.

Building-integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV)

BIPV refers to photovoltaic systems that are embedded within the building structure, such as photovoltaic shingles or wall panel systems, allowing for energy generation without the need for separate solar installations.

Cob

Cob is a composite building material consisting of clay, straw, sand, and earth, similar to adobe, valued for its natural insulating properties and durability.

Gray Water

Gray water is defined as wastewater originating from domestic processes, such as industrial applications and laundries, which can potentially be recycled for non-potable uses.

Green Roof

A green roof is specifically designed to be covered with vegetation, contributing to biodiversity, enhancing insulation, and managing stormwater.

Inverter

In a photovoltaic system, an inverter's primary role is to convert direct current (DC) generated by solar panels into alternating current (AC), making it usable for household appliances and the electrical grid.

Off-Grid Systems

Off-grid systems are photovoltaic setups that function independently from the public electrical grid, ideal for remote areas or as backup power solutions.

Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs)

Structural insulated panels consist of wall assemblies that feature a core of polyurethane foam and eliminate the need for traditional framing, resulting in improved energy efficiency.

Structural Insulated Sheathing (SIS)

SIS provides multiple benefits in construction, including structural stabilization, thermal insulation, and acting as a moisture barrier, thus enhancing the durability and energy efficiency of buildings.

Sustainable Construction

Sustainable construction, often referred to as green construction, emphasizes environmentally responsible practices and materials, aiming to minimize ecological impact.

Trombe Wall

A Trombe wall features a combination of glass exterior panels and a concrete block wall with an air gap, functioning as a passive solar heating mechanism that absorbs and retains heat.

Description

Test your knowledge on biopolymers used in construction materials with this quiz. You'll explore their definitions, applications, and advantages. Understand the difference between renewable and nonrenewable sources in the context of construction.