4.

Literature review

4.1. Study of climatic factors.

There are many climatic factors and should be study for passive building design.
Climatic factors can be classified in two groups’ viz. primary factors and secondary factors.

4.1.1. Primary factors

There are six primary factors.
1. Solar radiation (Light and heat)
The spectrum of solar radiation extends from ultra violet through visible light, to infrared
radiation. The latter is the main medium of energy, in the form of heat. The solar energy from
the sun is always constant. How much heat is received at a given point on earth depends on the
angle of incidence atmospheric conditions the length of the day

2. Precipitation (rain and snowfall)

A major factor in climatic characteristics is water. It occurs as rain, hail, snow, clouds and
vapour. Not only the quantity, but also the types and seasonal distribution of precipitation are
manifold. For example, in monsoon areas rainfall is concentrated over a certain period of the
year and can be extremely intense and long-lasting. In warm-humid regions it can occur over
the whole year with short downpours almost every day.

3. Wind
The reasons for the development of winds are manifold and vastly complex. The main reason,
however, is the uneven distribution of solar radiation over the globe. It results in differing
surface heating and temperatures. This causes differences in air pressure and, as a consequence,
the development of winds.
4. Humidity
Vapour is water in the form of gas, absorbed by air. Depending on the temperature, the
absorption capacity of the air varies. Relative humidity is defined as humidity at saturation
point (g/m³). 100 / effective humidity (g/m³) = ... %

Air temperature fluctuates considerably during the day and night, and with it the saturation
point. Because the absolute humidity remains constant, the relative humidity changes. If,
however, the absolute humidity exceeds the saturation point, the surplus water condenses and
occurs in the form of fog, clouds, dew or precipitation. The same can be observed when air
rises and thus cools down. Strong thermic upwind result in cumulus clouds; winds crossing
mountains create clouds and precipitation.

5. Temperature
Temperature is one of the essential and changeable environmental factors. It penetrates
into every region of the biosphere and profoundly influences all forms of life by increasing or
decreasing some of the vital activities of the organism. It is frequently a limiting factor for the
growth or distribution of animals and plants. Normal life activities go on smoothly at a specific
temperature or at a specific range of temperatures. This is called the optimum temperature or
the optimum range of temperature and it ranges from 5o C - 35o C.