What occurs when liquid is vaporized while being pumped?

When liquid is vaporized while being pumped, cavitation occurs. Cavitation is a phenomenon where vapor bubbles form in a liquid as a result of a drop in pressure, typically associated with conditions such as rapid fluid motion. As the pressure decreases, the liquid reaches its vapor pressure threshold, resulting in the formation of vapor bubbles. When these bubbles move into higher-pressure areas of the pump or system, they collapse suddenly, which can lead to significant damage, noise, and reduced efficiency.

In contrast, the other outcomes provided in the options do not correctly represent the process of vaporization during pumping. An increase in pressure would inhibit vaporization rather than promote it, and while liquid volume does change as it transitions to gas, it does not remain the same. Additionally, aeration refers specifically to the process of mixing air into a liquid, which is not the same as the vaporization of the liquid. Understanding cavitation and its implications is crucial for maintaining the integrity and performance of pumping systems.