A type of climate found in coastal areas subject to maritime influences, and characterised by less pronounced extremes between summer and winter; also relatively high rainfall and humidity. The reduction in temperature difference between day and night and between summer and winter is caused by the difference in the thermal capacities of water and land: the sea heats up and cools down approximately five times more slowly than the land.

Technical term for average.

The area-weighted average of the temperatures of surrounding surfaces.

Ventilation by means of fans, with or without ducts, which moves air from one place to another wihtout othrewise changing its characteristics (compare with air-conditioning, which changes temperature, humidity and purity of the air).

The physical functioning of the (human) body which causes it to give off heat (at the rate of about 100W).

The study of the earth’s atmosphere in its relation to weather and climate.

The climatic conditions in a small region or locality, affected by such factors as slope, orientation, hills, rivers, forests buildings.

Small hydroelectric systems, generally exploioting streams and small pressure differences to provide low voltage power for domestivc use.

Having compatible dimensions so that combinations are easily constructed (of elements of a building).

Heavy rains in coastal tropical zones.