What characteristic displayed on pump curves indicates the amount of water a pump can move?

The characteristic displayed on pump curves that indicates the amount of water a pump can move is capacity. Capacity, often expressed in units such as gallons per minute (GPM) or liters per second (L/s), provides a clear representation of the flow rate that the pump can maintain under specific conditions and at various heads. Understanding capacity is critical for operators, as it helps in selecting the right pump for the required application and ensuring that the system can meet the water demands efficiently.

Capacity is fundamentally linked to the pump's performance and dictates how much water can be delivered to the system over a specific time frame. Analyzing pump curves enables operators to see how capacity changes with different heads, providing insight into the operational limits of the pump. By selecting a pump with the appropriate capacity, operators can ensure adequate water supply while optimizing performance and energy efficiency in the water treatment process.