Cavitation can cause the discharge to become what?

• A. Erratic discharge and flow
• B. Steady, high discharge
• C. No discharge
• D. Increased efficiency

Answer: (A)

Cavitation happens when local pressures drop below the liquid’s vapor pressure, forming vapor bubbles in the liquid. As the system continues to operate, these bubbles grow and then collapse violently when they move into higher-pressure regions. This cycle disrupts the smooth passage of liquid, causing fluctuations in the discharge rate and flow pattern. The result is an inconsistent, pulsing flow rather than a steady one, so the discharge becomes erratic. Cavitation reduces efficiency and can cause damage, so the other options don’t fit: it isn’t a steady, high discharge, nor is it typically zero discharge, and it certainly isn’t an increase in efficiency.