Cavitation is a phenomenon where rapid changes of pressure in a liquid lead to the formation of small vapor-filled cavities in places where the pressure is relatively low. Which option represents Cavitation?

Cavitation is a phenomenon where rapid changes of pressure in a liquid lead to the formation of small vapor-filled cavities in places where the pressure is relatively low. Which option represents Cavitation?

• A. Adhesion
• B. Cavitation
• C. Lubrication
• D. Turbulence

Answer: (B)

Cavitation occurs when rapid pressure drops in a liquid cause the local pressure to fall below its vapor pressure, forming tiny vapor-filled cavities. When pressure then returns, these cavities collapse violently, often producing shock waves and potential surface damage. This dynamic—formation of vapor pockets due to low pressure and their subsequent collapse—is what cavitation is. The other terms describe different effects: adhesion is the attraction between dissimilar materials, lubrication is a film that reduces friction between surfaces, and turbulence is chaotic, irregular fluid motion (which can accompany cavitating flows but is not the same phenomenon).