Which water supply system relies entirely on the force of gravity to create pressure and cause water to flow through the system, often with an elevated tank?

Which water supply system relies entirely on the force of gravity to create pressure and cause water to flow through the system, often with an elevated tank?

• A. Gravity System
• B. Distribution System
• C. Hot Work
• D. Ignition Temperature

Answer: (A)

A gravity-fed water supply relies on gravitational potential energy from water stored at height to create pressure and drive flow. Water in an elevated tank or reservoir sits above the distribution system, and as it moves downward through pipes, the weight of the water column generates pressure at the outlets without the need for pumps. The pressure at any point is determined by the height of that water column, roughly 0.433 psi per foot of elevation, which is why water towers and rooftop tanks are used to supply pressure. This setup is simple and energy-efficient but has fixed pressure based on tank height and can struggle to meet high demand or supply tall buildings. In contrast, a distribution system typically relies on pumps to maintain pressure, while hot work and ignition temperature relate to other fire safety topics rather than how water pressure is produced.

A gravity-fed water supply relies on gravitational potential energy from water stored at height to create pressure and drive flow. Water in an elevated tank or reservoir sits above the distribution system, and as it moves downward through pipes, the weight of the water column generates pressure at the outlets without the need for pumps. The pressure at any point is determined by the height of that water column, roughly 0.433 psi per foot of elevation, which is why water towers and rooftop tanks are used to supply pressure. This setup is simple and energy-efficient but has fixed pressure based on tank height and can struggle to meet high demand or supply tall buildings. In contrast, a distribution system typically relies on pumps to maintain pressure, while hot work and ignition temperature relate to other fire safety topics rather than how water pressure is produced.