Which statement describes a common symptom of cavitation in a pump?

• A. Audible noise and vibration near the pump.
• B. Reduced noise.
• C. Steady high efficiency.
• D. No vibration.

Answer: (A)

Cavitation happens when local pressure in the pump drops below the liquid’s vapor pressure, forming vapor bubbles. When those bubbles collapse, they release sudden, high-energy pulses that create noise and cause the impeller and pump housing to vibrate. That noisy, vibratory behavior is a classic and noticeable symptom of cavitation, which is why audible noise and vibration near the pump is the best description.

Other choices don’t fit because cavitation tends to make more noise, not less; it disrupts flow and efficiency, so you wouldn’t expect steady high efficiency or reduced noise; and it usually brings some vibration, not the absence of it.