十万个为什么·科学阅读30篇（4）

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白蚁丘如何在不使用电力的情况下调节温度和湿度？

Termite mounds in Africa and Australia can reach over six meters tall and last decades.
They contain complex networks of tunnels, chimneys, and porous walls made of soil and saliva.
Air moves through the mound via convection: warm, moist air rises and exits through top vents.
Cooler, drier air enters through underground passages and flows upward gradually.
The thick outer wall buffers daily temperature swings, while internal clay layers absorb excess moisture.
Termites constantly repair and adjust tunnel openings to respond to weather changes.
This passive system keeps nest temperatures stable within ±1°C despite outside swings of 30°C.
Engineers study these structures to design energy-free building ventilation systems.
Modern architects have built office buildings inspired by termite mound airflow patterns.
Such biomimicry reduces air conditioning use by up to forty percent in tropical climates.