Water Distribution Practice Test Questions And Answers
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Check out these water distribution practice test questions and answer them accordingly. In this scored quiz, you'll be asked 20 questions related to the water distribution system. This is a standardized practice test on the topic of the water distribution system for the students. So, if you think you know about this topic and can score well on this test, you should play the quiz.
Each question not only tests your knowledge but also provides insightful explanations that highlight important concepts and practical applications. Whether you ace the quiz or learn from the answers, you'll gain valuable insights into the Read moreessential life-sustaining resource that is water.
Gear up to dive into the world of water distribution. Test your knowledge, challenge your friends, and learn something new with our Water Distribution Quiz. Start now and make a splash with your newfound expertise!
Water Distribution Questions and Answers
1.
Usually, which type of hydrant is a flush hydrant?
A.
Warm-climate hydrant
B.
Wet-barrel hydrant
C.
Dry-barrel hydrant
D.
Standpipe-barrel hydrant
Correct Answer
B. Wet-barrel hydrant
Explanation Usually, a Wet-barrel hydrant is a flush hydrant. Wet-barrel hydrants are designed for use in mild or warm climates, where there is little to no risk of freezing. In these hydrants, the water is always available in the barrel, allowing for immediate access in case of a fire. Flushing a hydrant refers to the process of opening the hydrant and allowing water to flow out, typically for maintenance or cleaning purposes. Since the water is readily available in a wet-barrel hydrant, it can be flushed without any additional steps, making it the most common type of hydrant associated with the term "flush hydrant."
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2.
Which type of temperature sensor uses two wires of different materials?
A.
Thermistors
B.
Thermo-resistors
C.
Thermocouples
D.
Thermo-conductors
Correct Answer
C. Thermocouples
Explanation A Thermocouple is a type of temperature sensor that uses two wires made of different materials, typically metal alloys, to measure temperature. These sensors rely on the Seebeck effect, which generates a voltage proportional to the temperature difference between the two wires' junctions. By measuring the voltage produced, a thermocouple can determine the temperature at the junction where the two wires meet.
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3.
The amount of energy in feet that a pump supplies to a fluid is called
A.
Velocity head
B.
Pump head
C.
Total head
D.
Pressure head
Correct Answer
B. Pump head
Explanation The term "pump head" refers to the amount of energy in feet that a pump supplies to a fluid. It is a measurement of the height to which a pump can raise water vertically from the pump level to the discharge point, expressed in feet. This concept is crucial in determining a pump's ability to overcome resistance or pressure in a system and effectively transport the fluid to a desired height or through a system. "Pump head" includes both the pressure head (which measures the pressure energy given to the fluid) and any additional energy imparted to overcome friction or other resistance in the piping system.
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4.
Which is the most frequent cause of hydraulic transients in water distribution systems?
A.
Controlled pump shutdown
B.
Flow demand changes
C.
Pump startup
D.
Valve opening and closing
Correct Answer
D. Valve opening and closing
Explanation The most frequent cause of hydraulic transients in water distribution systems is valve opening and closing. Hydraulic transients, also known as water hammer, occur when there are sudden changes in the flow rate, which cause pressure surges or waves within the water system. These surges can be caused by any rapid change in velocity of the water flow, which is often the result of quickly opening or closing valves. This rapid action changes the dynamics of the water flow, potentially leading to spikes or drops in pressure that can stress the pipes and even cause damage. While pump startups and shutdowns, as well as changes in flow demand, can also cause transients, the action of valves is typically more sudden and thus more likely to induce significant hydraulic transients.
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5.
Which type of valve should be used for filling an elevated tank if the full system pressure overflows the tank?
A.
Pressure-relief valve
B.
Altitude valve
C.
Pressure-reducing valve
D.
Globe valve
Correct Answer
B. Altitude valve
Explanation An altitude valve is the most appropriate type of valve to use for filling an elevated tank when there is a concern that the full system pressure might overflow the tank. Altitude valves are specifically designed to control the level of water within a tank. They operate by opening to allow water into the tank when the water level drops below a predetermined height and closing when the water level reaches the set upper limit. This type of valve effectively prevents overflow by automatically managing the water fill based on the altitude (water level) within the tank, making it an ideal choice for maintaining consistent water levels and avoiding overflows in elevated storage systems.
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6.
One form of a differential-pressure flow meter is a(n)
A.
Propeller
B.
Proportional
C.
Velocity-type
D.
Orifice plate
Correct Answer
D. Orifice plate
Explanation An orifice plate is a type of differential-pressure flow meter. It works by creating a constriction within a pipe that causes a pressure drop across the orifice. The flow rate is determined based on the change in pressure from the upstream side to the downstream side of the orifice. The principle behind this device is based on Bernoulli's equation, which relates the pressure drop to the velocity of the fluid flowing through the pipe, thus allowing the measurement of the flow rate. Orifice plates are commonly used in various industrial applications to measure the flow rates of liquids and gases due to their simplicity and effectiveness.
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7.
If a centrifugal pump with a single volute is operated at more than______ of its design capacity, an excess radial load will result, causing premature bearing failure.
A.
110%
B.
120%
C.
125%
D.
135%
Correct Answer
B. 120%
Explanation If a centrifugal pump with a single volute is operated at more than 120% of its design capacity, an excess radial load will result, causing premature bearing failure. Operating a centrifugal pump beyond its design capacity can lead to increased stress on the pump's components, including the bearings, which may cause them to fail earlier than expected. In this case, keeping the pump's operation within 120% of its design capacity helps to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
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8.
How many inches of mercury is a total vacuum at sea level?
A.
14.7 inches
B.
30.0 inches
C.
34.0 inches
D.
39.6 inches
Correct Answer
B. 30.0 inches
Explanation At sea level, a total vacuum corresponds to 30.0 inches of mercury (inHg). This measurement indicates the atmospheric pressure that would be absent in a vacuum state, equivalent to a perfect vacuum under standard conditions. The value of 30.0 inches of mercury represents the typical atmospheric pressure exerted at sea level, which is about 14.7 pounds per square inch (psi) or 760 millimeters of mercury (mmHg). The figure helps in understanding the maximum vacuum level that can be achieved under normal atmospheric conditions at sea level, used in various applications, including meteorological barometers and other scientific measurements.
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9.
How many feet of water will equal the atmospheric pressure at sea level?
A.
28ft
B.
30ft
C.
32ft
D.
34ft
Correct Answer
D. 34ft
Explanation At sea level, the atmospheric pressure is equivalent to approximately 34 feet of water. This conversion is based on the fact that one atmosphere of pressure (which is about 14.7 psi at sea level) can support a column of water roughly 34 feet high. This relationship is useful in various applications such as engineering and physics, where understanding the hydrostatic pressure exerted by water columns at atmospheric pressure is crucial. It illustrates how much water pressure is equivalent to the air pressure all around us at sea level.
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10.
Pressure gauges connected to both the suction and discharge sides of a pump should be connected.
A.
2 to 3 feet on either side of a pump, unless there is a change in direction, it can go closer.
B.
1 foot and 2 feet from the pump on the suction side and discharge side,
respectively.
C.
Next to the pump on the suction side and just before the check valve on the
discharge valve.
D.
To the pressure taps supplied on the pump.
Correct Answer
D. To the pressure taps supplied on the pump.
Explanation Pressure gauges connected to both the suction and discharge sides of a pump should ideally be connected to the pressure taps supplied on the pump. This setup allows for accurate monitoring of the pressure levels at crucial points in the pump's operation, helping to ensure efficient performance and diagnose potential issues. These pressure taps are specifically designed for this purpose, providing the most direct and effective locations for measuring the pump's suction and discharge pressures. Connecting the gauges directly to these taps helps avoid errors that might occur due to turbulence or other factors if the gauges are placed too far from these critical areas.
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11.
Which are the two principal types of throttling valves?
A.
Throttling and pressure-reducing valves
B.
Butterfly and relief valves
C.
Butterfly and altitude valves
D.
Pressure-reducing and altitude valves
Correct Answer
A. Throttling and pressure-reducing valves
Explanation The two principal types of throttling valves are: Throttling Valves and Pressure-Reducing Valves. Throttling Valves are designed to control the flow rate or pressure of a fluid by gradually reducing the opening through which the fluid passes. They are commonly used to regulate flow in pipelines, HVAC systems, and various industrial processes. Pressure-reducing valves, also known as pressure control valves, are designed to maintain a specific downstream pressure by reducing the incoming pressure from the source. They are often used to control the pressure of gases or liquids in a system.
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12.
Which valve would be best to use to precisely throttle flow?
A.
Globe valve
B.
Butterfly valve
C.
Rotary valve
D.
Needle valve
Correct Answer
D. Needle valve
Explanation A needle valve would be the best choice to precisely throttle flow because it allows for fine control of the flow rate. The needle-shaped plunger inside the valve can be adjusted to increase or decrease the flow by partially obstructing the passage. This design provides accurate and gradual flow regulation, making it ideal for applications that require precise control, such as in laboratories or industries where small adjustments in flow rate are crucial.
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13.
SCAD A systems consist of the following distinct components:
A.
Remote terminal units (RTUs), communications, and human-machine interface (HMI)
B.
Sensing instrument, RTUs, communications, and HMI
C.
Sensing instrument, RTUs, communications, master station, and HMI
D.
RTUs, communications, master station, and HMI
Correct Answer
D. RTUs, communications, master station, and HMI
Explanation The correct answer is RTUs, communications, master station, and HMI. This answer is correct because SCADA systems typically consist of these four components. RTUs (Remote Terminal Units) are responsible for collecting data from sensors and sending it to the master station. Communications refer to the network infrastructure that allows data transmission between the RTUs, master station, and other components. The master station is the central control unit that receives and processes data from the RTUs, and the HMI (Human-Machine Interface) is the user interface that allows operators to monitor and control the system.
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14.
Stray-current corrosion is caused by
A.
Corrosive soils
B.
Acidic soils
C.
AC currents
D.
DC currents
Correct Answer
D. DC currents
Explanation Stray-current corrosion is typically caused by DC (direct current) currents. This form of corrosion occurs when DC electrical currents inadvertently flow through metallic structures, such as pipelines or underground storage tanks. These stray currents can originate from various sources, including cathodic protection systems, electrical transmission systems, and nearby transit systems like subways or trams that use DC electricity. The unintended flow of DC currents through these metallic structures can lead to accelerated corrosion, significantly reducing the lifespan and integrity of the affected infrastructure. This type of corrosion is a specific concern in environments where extensive use of DC-powered systems is present.
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15.
When a metal is galvanized, it is coated with
A.
Zinc
B.
Aluminum
C.
Aluminum oxide
D.
Aluminum hydroxide
Correct Answer
A. Zinc
Explanation When a metal is galvanized, it is coated with zinc. Galvanization is a process used to protect metals from corrosion by applying a layer of zinc to the surface. Zinc is chosen for this purpose because it has excellent corrosion resistance properties. It forms a protective barrier on the metal surface, preventing the underlying metal from being exposed to moisture and oxygen, which are the main causes of corrosion. Zinc also acts as a sacrificial anode, meaning it corrodes preferentially over the underlying metal, further enhancing the protection. Therefore, zinc is the correct answer for the coating used in galvanization.
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16.
Which system would provide for a "soft start" to a motor?
A.
Wound-rotor induction motor and a controller
B.
Synchronous motor and a variable frequency controller
C.
A variable frequency drive and a squirrel-cage induction motor
D.
Squirrel-cage induction drive and a variable frequency drive
Correct Answer
A. Wound-rotor induction motor and a controller
Explanation A wound-rotor induction motor and a controller would provide for a "soft start" to a motor. This is because a wound-rotor induction motor has adjustable resistance in its rotor circuit, allowing for a smooth and gradual increase in the motor's speed during startup. The controller further regulates the motor's starting current and speed, ensuring a controlled and gentle acceleration.
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17.
Which type of relay is frequently used to detect power loss and initiate a switchover to another power source?
A.
Loss-of-phase relays
B.
Voltage relays
C.
Frequency relays
D.
Circuit breaker relays
Correct Answer
B. Voltage relays
Explanation Voltage relays are frequently used to detect power loss and initiate a switchover to another power source. These relays monitor the voltage level and can detect when there is a significant drop or loss of voltage, indicating a power failure. Once the voltage drops below a certain threshold, the voltage relay triggers a switch to another power source, ensuring a continuous power supply. This makes voltage relays an essential component in backup power systems and critical applications where uninterrupted power is crucial.
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18.
When a control switch operated by pressure changes is located too close to a pump station, erratic operation can occur. This problem is known as
A.
Pulsing
B.
Seesaw arching
C.
Racking
D.
Roaming
Correct Answer
C. Racking
Explanation When a control switch operated by pressure changes is located too close to a pump station, it can lead to erratic operation due to rapid pressure fluctuations. This problem is known as racking. Racking occurs because the switch quickly toggles on and off in response to minor pressure changes, causing instability and potential damage to the pump system. Proper placement of the pressure switch away from turbulent areas can help mitigate this issue.
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19.
Which chemical may cause the leaching of lead in stagnant waters?
A.
Sodium zinc phosphate
B.
Lime
C.
Sodium carbonate
D.
Sodium hydroxide
Correct Answer
C. Sodium carbonate
Explanation Sodium carbonate (Na2CO3) may cause the leaching of lead in stagnant waters. Sodium carbonate is a commonly used water treatment chemical that can increase the pH of water, making it more alkaline. However, when water with high alkalinity remains stagnant, it can cause lead to leach from plumbing materials, such as lead pipes or lead-based solder. This results in elevated lead levels in the water, posing potential health risks to consumers. Proper water treatment, regular water testing, and proper maintenance of plumbing systems can help minimize lead leaching in water systems.
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20.
High levels of cadmium at the customer's tap would most likely be due to
A.
Copper pipe
B.
Galvanized pipe
C.
Iron pipe
D.
Household fixtures
Correct Answer
B. Galvanized pipe
Explanation Galvanized pipe is the most likely cause of high levels of cadmium at the customer's tap. Galvanized pipes are coated with a layer of zinc, and over time, this coating can corrode, exposing the underlying metal to the water flowing through the pipes. Cadmium can be present in the zinc coating, and when the coating deteriorates, it can leach into the water, resulting in high levels of cadmium at the tap. Copper pipe, iron pipe, and household fixtures are not typically associated with cadmium contamination.
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