What is Ventilation?
[[File:Windcatcher in Kashmar - A 4.JPG|thumb|Ancient wind catcher in the Middle East]] [[File:Central Tower, Palace of Westminster.jpg|thumb|The central tower of the [[Palace of Westminster]]. This [[octagon]]al [[spire]] was for ventilation: it was to draw air out of the Palace. Its design was to disguise its function.<ref>Porter, Dale H. 1998. ''The life and times of Sir Goldsworthy Gurney: gentleman scientist and inventor, 1793–1875''. Associated University Presses, pp. 177–179. {{ISBN|0-934223-50-5}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.parliament.uk/about/living-heritage/building/palace/architecture/palacestructure/towers-of-parliament/ |publisher=www.parliament.uk |title=The Towers of Parliament}}</ref>]] [[File:George's Dock ventilation station 1931 Liverpool 7.jpg|thumb|Ventilation system]] '''Ventilation''' is the introduction of [[Air|fresh air]], usually from the outside, into a space, while sending stale air back out. Fans and pumps, vent grates and air flow tunnels are common in these structures. The simplest systems are called “natural ventilation,” which usually means that they get their [[air circulation]] through vents opening to the outside. Mechanical systems are more popular for [[industry]] (like in [[Factory|factories]]). Mechanical systems are able to regulate other things, including [[temperature]], relative [[humidity]], and [[oxygen]] levels. ==Uses== Fresh air prevents issues like [[mold]] and [[bacteria]] growth, as well as the spread of [[disease]]. It helps eliminate [[dust]], which can lead to cleaner living standards. Single rooms can sometimes be ventilated by opening a window or door, but this isn’t as successful for larger structures. Ventilation usually collaborates with heating and cooling systems, but not always and they aren’t only limited to buildings. Vehicles frequently have ventilation systems that control air circulation and air quality. ==History== In [[ancient Persia]], structures called windcatchers were built to create natural ventilation. These structures ar