Which term describes energy that is transferred to or from the exterior of a building?

The term that describes energy transferred to or from the exterior of a building is thermal energy transfer. This concept encompasses the movement of heat as it flows between the inside and the outside of a structure due to temperature differences. Thermal energy transfer can occur through conduction, convection, and radiation, and it plays a critical role in understanding a building's energy efficiency, heating, and cooling performance.

In the context of building performance, understanding thermal energy transfer is essential for energy management, insulation effectiveness, and HVAC system design. This concept also helps in calculating energy losses during different seasons, allowing energy professionals to suggest improvements to maximize energy efficiency and comfort within the structure.

While the other options touch upon aspects related to energy and buildings, they do not specifically address the transfer of thermal energy. Air pressure regulation refers to managing air pressure within a building, heat retention involves how well a building maintains its internal temperature, and external energy exchange could refer to various interactions but does not specifically focus on the thermodynamic processes involved in energy movement.