In pump terminology, what term describes the maximum height water can be raised by the pump?

• A. Flow rate
• B. Total head
• C. Pressure rating
• D. Discharge head

Answer: (B)

In pump terminology, head is the energy per unit weight added to the water, expressed as an equivalent height of water. The maximum height a pump can raise water describes the total head the pump can deliver, since this represents the overall energy available to lift water against gravity and overcome system losses. Total head combines elevation head (height to lift), pressure head, and velocity head, so it directly relates to how high the water can be raised. Flow rate, by contrast, is about how much water moves per unit time, not how high; a pressure rating concerns pressure levels rather than lift height; and discharge head isn’t a standard term used to describe lifting capability.