Which adaptation of passive cooling is characteristic of a bahay kubo?

The adaptation of passive cooling characteristic of a bahay kubo is that the living platform is elevated on stilts. This design is essential for several reasons. First, elevating the structure keeps it cooler by allowing air to circulate beneath the house, promoting ventilation and reducing heat buildup from the ground. This is particularly important in tropical climates, where the temperature can be quite high, and effective cooling strategies are necessary. Additionally, being elevated helps protect the structure from floods and insects.

While the other options may contribute to comfort in various ways—such as the use of fans being an active cooling method and orientation affecting heat gain—the specific characteristic that aligns most closely with passive cooling principles in traditional Filipino architecture is indeed the elevated design. It is important to understand that the bahay kubo is designed to take advantage of natural ventilation and cooling methods, which is highlighted by its elevated structure.