In a presentation delivered at a Latin American architectural conservation symposium, a researcher discusses the structural and environmental performance of traditional *quincha* construction in coastal Peru:
"During our 18-month monitoring of restored historic buildings in Lima, *quincha*—a traditional construction system utilizing a timber framework filled with woven cane and coated in mud plaster—demonstrated remarkable environmental resilience. While contemporary unreinforced brick structures experienced internal daily temperature swings of up to 14°C, the monitored *quincha* structures maintained internal temperature fluctuations below 4.5°C due to the thermal mass of the thick mud plaster combined with insulating air pockets within the hollow cane weave. Structurally, the flexible cane lattice dissipated horizontal shear forces during minor seismic tremors, whereas rigid concrete-mortar masonry sustained micro-fracturing along joint lines. However, the study recorded that relative humidity exceeding 78% during winter months degraded unsealed exterior plaster within six months, necessitating the application of a breathable lime-casein sealant to prevent organic decay of the cane core."
Based on the presentation, which specific feature directly accounted for the stabilized indoor temperatures in the *quincha* buildings?
- AThe flexible cane lattice that dissipates horizontal shear forces during tremors
- The thermal mass of the mud plaster combined with air pockets inside the hollow caneAnswer
- CThe application of a breathable lime-casein sealant across exterior surfaces
- DThe rigid masonry joints that prevent micro-fracturing during thermal expansion