What is the function of a pump in fluid systems?

• A. To filter solids
• B. To store energy
• C. To measure temperature
• D. To increase the pressure of a liquid to transport it

Answer: (D)

A pump’s job is to add energy to a liquid so it can be moved through a system. It does this by increasing the liquid’s pressure (and thus its hydraulic head) so the fluid can overcome friction losses, elevation changes, and other head losses as it travels through pipes and equipment. The energy from a motor is converted into fluid energy, creating the pressure difference that drives flow.

This isn’t about filtering solids, storing energy, or measuring temperature. Filtering would remove particles with a filter, storage involves keeping energy in a tank or reservoir, and measuring temperature uses a sensor. The pump specifically raises the pressure to transport the liquid.