Cross Connection Practice Exam

In a closed plumbing system, which phenomenon occurs due to an increase in temperature?

1. Pressure build-up

2. Thermal expansion

3. Fluid circulation

4. Chemical reaction

The correct answer is: Thermal expansion

In a closed plumbing system, when the temperature increases, the phenomenon that occurs is thermal expansion. This refers to the tendency of matter to change its shape, area, and volume in response to changes in temperature. When the water or fluid inside the plumbing system gets heated, it expands because the molecules move faster and push away from each other, taking up more space. Thermal expansion is significant in a closed system because it can lead to increased pressure if there’s no room for the expanding water. This is a common concern in plumbing and other systems where temperature fluctuations can affect the integrity of the structure if not properly accounted for. This understanding is crucial for ensuring that systems can accommodate changes in temperature without damage or failure, emphasizing the importance of designing systems with proper expansion space or pressure relief mechanisms to prevent safety hazards.