What phenomenon is caused by closing a valve too quickly?

Water hammer is a phenomenon that occurs when a valve is closed too quickly, disrupting the flow of water in a pipe. When the flow is suddenly halted, the momentum of the moving water generates a shock wave that travels through the plumbing system. This can create a loud banging or thumping noise, which is characteristic of water hammer.

The rapid change in pressure caused by the sudden stoppage can also result in vibrations throughout the pipes, potentially leading to damage over time if not addressed. This issue is particularly concerning in systems where water movement is significant, as the force generated by the shock wave can cause joint failures, leaks, or even catastrophic pipe bursts.

In contrast, the other choices reflect different phenomena. Water leakage pertains to the failure of seals or connections, pressure drop refers to a decrease in pressure due to resistance in the system or long distances of piping, and cavitation involves the formation of vapor bubbles in a liquid because of low pressure, followed by their collapse, affecting pump efficiency. Each of these phenomena has distinct causes and effects that differ from the immediate impact of closing a valve too quickly, which is specifically associated with water hammer.