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What condition results from low pressures within a pump, causing boiling water and vapor bubbles?

  1. Surging

  2. Siphoning

  3. Cavitation

  4. Priming

The correct answer is: Cavitation

Cavitation occurs when there is a significant drop in pressure within a pump, leading to the formation of vapor bubbles in the liquid being pumped. This phenomenon typically occurs when the pressure in the pump inlet drops below the vapor pressure of the liquid, causing the liquid to boil and generate small vapor pockets. When these bubbles travel to areas of higher pressure within the pump, they collapse violently, which can cause significant damage to the pump components and reduce operational efficiency. Understanding cavitation is crucial for proper pump operation, as it allows operators to recognize and mitigate conditions that might lead to this damaging occurrence.