What is a solar chimney used for?

A solar chimney is designed primarily to facilitate natural ventilation by allowing hot air to escape from a building. As the air inside a structure heats up, it becomes less dense and rises. The solar chimney enhances this natural convection process by creating a vertical channel that allows the hot air to exit more efficiently. This process reduces indoor temperatures and improves air circulation, leading to better thermal comfort without the need for mechanical cooling systems.

Using solar energy, the chimney typically absorbs heat from sunlight, which further increases the temperature of the air inside it, thereby enhancing the upward movement of air. This passive ventilation strategy is eco-friendly and helps reduce energy consumption associated with mechanical air conditioning systems.

While the other options may involve different systems or technologies, they do not accurately describe the primary function of a solar chimney. For instance, increasing humidity indoors and heating water in residential systems are related to other HVAC systems and methods. Storing solar energy involves different technologies such as solar batteries or thermal energy storage systems, which do not operate on the principle of natural air circulation like a solar chimney does.