What does "stratification" refer to in the context of heat pumps?

Stratification in the context of heat pumps refers to the layering of air within a space, which has significant implications for temperature distribution. When warm air rises, it tends to form a layer above cooler air, leading to varying temperatures at different heights in a room. In a heating scenario, this can result in a situation where the upper part of a room is significantly warmer than the lower part, which can affect overall comfort and the efficiency of heating systems.

Effective heat pump systems take stratification into account by designing their airflow patterns in a way that promotes even distribution of temperature throughout the room. Understanding this concept is crucial for optimizing heating performance and ensuring that all areas of a space receive adequate warmth.

The other options touch on related concepts, like daily temperature changes or air quality, but they do not specifically address the phenomenon of air layering and its impact on temperature within a given space.