What condition is indicated when a pump is located below the source supply?

When a pump is located below the source supply, the situation describes the condition of static suction head. This term refers to the vertical distance from the surface of the fluid in the source supply (such as a tank or reservoir) to the centerline of the pump. In this scenario, the pump is benefiting from the gravitational force that assists in moving the fluid up into the pump, which contributes positively to the pumping efficiency.

Static suction head is essential in ensuring that the pump can effectively draw the fluid from the source. A higher static suction head indicates that the pump is situated at an advantageous elevation relative to the liquid source, leading to less energy required for the pump to lift the fluid.

In contrast, the other terms usually refer to different situations: dynamic suction head relates to the actual operational conditions when the fluid is in motion and affected by various forces, while static pressure head pertains to the pressure of the fluid in a stationary condition. Dynamic pressure head is typically concerned with the energy in motion related to the flow and does not apply specifically to the elevation relationship in this context. Therefore, understanding the specific definition and implications of static suction head clarifies why it is the correct answer for the question.