What term describes a compartment connected to ducts that is part of the air distribution system?

A plenum is a critical component of the air distribution system in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. It serves as a central compartment that facilitates the movement of air between different sections or components of the system. The plenum's role is to gather air from the supply ducts or return ducts and distribute it efficiently throughout the building.

Physical characteristics of a plenum include its often larger, box-like structure that connects various ductwork, allowing for evenly distributed airflow. This compartment is essential for maintaining balanced air pressure and circulation, making it a crucial element in both ensuring comfort and maximizing the efficiency of HVAC systems.

In contrast, ductwork refers to the pipes or conduits themselves that transport air, but it does not imply the central compartment aspect that a plenum encompasses. A ventilation shaft typically leads air to or from specific areas but does not function as a central distribution point like a plenum. A chamber generally refers to any enclosed space and lacks the specific connection to ducts that characterizes a plenum. Thus, the term "plenum" is uniquely suited to describe the compartment connected to ducts within the air distribution framework.