Which of the following best describes the function of a check valve?

Which of the following best describes the function of a check valve?

• A. Allows water to flow in any direction
• B. Prevents backflow to avoid contamination
• C. Measures the depth of water in a well
• D. Mechanically opens valves for maintenance

Answer: (B)

The function of a check valve is to prevent backflow, which is essential for avoiding contamination in water systems. Check valves are designed to allow fluid to flow in only one direction. This one-way flow is critical in preventing potentially contaminated water from flowing back into clean water sources. By ensuring that water flows only in the intended direction, check valves maintain the integrity of the water supply and help protect public health. When discussing check valves, it’s essential to note that they do not allow water to flow in both directions, which directly contradicts the first option. They also do not serve to measure the depth of water, as that function is typically fulfilled by other instruments like piezometers or pressure transducers, which relates to the third option. Lastly, check valves are not mechanical devices that open or close for maintenance purposes, as described in the fourth option; rather, they function automatically based on pressure differentials in the system. Thus, the primary purpose of a check valve is indeed to prevent backflow and safeguard against contamination.

The function of a check valve is to prevent backflow, which is essential for avoiding contamination in water systems. Check valves are designed to allow fluid to flow in only one direction. This one-way flow is critical in preventing potentially contaminated water from flowing back into clean water sources. By ensuring that water flows only in the intended direction, check valves maintain the integrity of the water supply and help protect public health.

When discussing check valves, it’s essential to note that they do not allow water to flow in both directions, which directly contradicts the first option. They also do not serve to measure the depth of water, as that function is typically fulfilled by other instruments like piezometers or pressure transducers, which relates to the third option. Lastly, check valves are not mechanical devices that open or close for maintenance purposes, as described in the fourth option; rather, they function automatically based on pressure differentials in the system. Thus, the primary purpose of a check valve is indeed to prevent backflow and safeguard against contamination.