NCIDQ IDFX Practice Exam

What is the primary function of drainage in plumbing systems?

1. To provide potable water

2. To transport waste using gravity

3. To increase water pressure

4. To insulate pipes from heat

The correct answer is: To transport waste using gravity

The primary function of drainage in plumbing systems is to transport waste using gravity. This is a fundamental aspect of plumbing design, where waste materials are carried away from buildings to sewage treatment facilities or septic systems. The drainage system relies on gravity to efficiently move waste, which is critical for maintaining sanitary conditions in residential and commercial spaces. The design of drainage systems often includes slopes and a network of pipes that facilitate the downward flow of waste, ensuring that it can effectively reach the disposal point without causing blockages or backflow. Proper drainage is essential for preventing health hazards associated with stagnant waste and for ensuring the overall functionality of plumbing systems. The other aspects related to potable water provision, increasing water pressure, or insulating pipes serve different purposes and do not define the primary role of the drainage system. Their functions complement overall plumbing systems, but they do not pertain directly to the main objective of carrying away waste materials.