What is the difference between natural and mechanical ventilation?

The distinction between natural and mechanical ventilation is central to understanding indoor air quality management. Natural ventilation relies on passive processes to circulate air, primarily utilizing windows, vents, and other openings to allow fresh air to enter and stale air to exit based on natural forces such as buoyancy and wind pressure. This method does not require external energy for operation and depends on environmental conditions to function effectively.

On the other hand, mechanical ventilation employs powered systems like fans, blowers, and HVAC units to control air movement within a building. This type of ventilation can be designed to efficiently filter, heat, or cool the air, allowing for more precise control over indoor air conditions regardless of outside weather patterns.

The other options do not align with the principles of ventilation. The assertion that both types are the same is incorrect because they have distinct mechanisms and applications. Similarly, claiming that natural ventilation uses air conditioners while mechanical does not is misleading, as natural ventilation specifically does not incorporate mechanical systems at all. Lastly, stating that only mechanical ventilation can cool a space overlooks the fact that natural ventilation can also help cool indoor environments through strategies like cross-ventilation during suitable weather conditions. Therefore, the definition of natural and mechanical ventilation as described captures the essence of how they function and their