Which statement is true regarding pressure drops in plumbing systems?

In plumbing systems, pressure drops are influenced by various factors, including the size of the pipe. Larger pipes tend to have lower frictional resistance compared to smaller pipes, which can help minimize the pressure drop along a given length of pipe. This is primarily because larger diameters provide a greater cross-sectional area for the water to flow through, reducing the velocity and turbulence that can contribute to energy loss. Therefore, it is reasonable to state that pressure drops are generally negligible in larger pipes, especially over short distances.

The other statements do not accurately reflect the mechanics of fluid flow in plumbing. For instance, while it’s true that fittings and valves can cause pressure drops, they are not the only source; friction along the length of the pipe also contributes significantly to overall pressure loss. Longer pipes typically do result in more substantial pressure drops due to increased friction over the distance, not less, and the material of the pipe is very much a factor; different materials can have varying levels of roughness and therefore affect the pressure drop. Thus, the statement about pressure drops being negligible in larger pipes aligns with the principles governing fluid dynamics.