Final answer:
Sensors in smart buildings primarily monitor air quality and room temperature to ensure occupant health and comfort. Physics is integral to designing the sensor systems and understanding the environmental conditions they monitor.
Step-by-step explanation:
Sensors in smart buildings are designed to constantly monitor various aspects of the building's environment and systems to ensure efficient operation, comfort, and safety. One of the key functions of these sensors is to monitor the air quality within the building. Monitoring air quality is crucial for the health and well-being of the building's occupants, as poor indoor air can lead to issues such as Sick Building Syndrome. In addition to air quality, sensors may also track room temperature, as maintaining an optimal temperature is essential for both comfort and to prevent the spread of illnesses, as shown in studies where the temperature of dorm rooms was correlated with the incidence of colds among college students.
It is essential to ensure that the building is well-ventilated and free from pollutants, which can be achieved through proper sensor placement and monitoring. Physics plays a role in the design of these sensor systems and the environmental conditions they monitor, such as air composition and desk arrangement.