What is the process of air rubbing against the ceiling or wall called?

The process of air rubbing against the ceiling or wall is commonly referred to as "scrubbing." This term is used in the context of airflow within a space, where air moves in a manner that can create friction or turbulence as it interacts with surfaces. This interaction is significant in HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems as it affects air movement and distribution within an environment.

Scrubbing refers to how the air's movement can influence the comfort and efficiency of heating or cooling systems, ensuring proper air circulation. Understanding this concept is crucial for professionals in the field, as it relates to optimizing system performance and achieving desired indoor air quality.

In contrast, swirling generally describes a rotational movement of air, which is different from the straightforward friction or rubbing against surfaces. Ventilation refers to the process of supplying fresh air to space, while diffusion involves the movement of air from areas of higher concentration to areas of lower concentration, neither of which directly addresses the interaction of air with surfaces in the manner described in the question.