Master Plumber Pre-board Exam Practice Test

In a basic plumbing system, the main components typically include fixtures (like sinks, toilets, and faucets), valves (which control water flow), and fittings (such as elbows, tees, and couplings that connect pipes). A utility box, however, is not a standard component of a basic plumbing system; it is generally used for electrical or other utility access purposes rather than for plumbing.

A well is a source of water that is created by digging, boring, or drilling into the ground in order to access water. The water obtained from a well comes from underground aquifers, which are formed by water percolating and being absorbed through the ground.

A hose bibb is a type of faucet that has external threads at its outlet, allowing a hose to be easily attached. It is commonly used for outdoor water supply, such as watering gardens or washing cars. The term "hose bibb" is often used interchangeably with "outdoor faucet" or "spigot." This type of faucet provides a convenient and secure connection for hoses, making it easier to access water for various outdoor activities.

All of the plumbing fixtures mentioned (water closet, lavatory, and urinal) are considered sanitary ware. Sanitary ware refers to any fixture or appliance used for personal hygiene and sanitation purposes. These fixtures are designed to facilitate the disposal of waste and maintain cleanliness in bathrooms or washrooms. Therefore, all of the options provided are correct as they fall under the category of sanitary ware.

The components listed, such as gutters, downspouts, catch basins, etc., are all associated with the management of rainwater and runoff. This indicates that they are part of the storm drainage system, which is designed to collect and divert excess water from rainfall or storms. The sanitary drainage system deals with the removal of wastewater and sewage, while the water supply system provides clean water for consumption. The ventilation system, on the other hand, is responsible for maintaining air circulation within a building.

A gooseneck faucet is a type of faucet commonly used in kitchen sinks and drinking fountains. It has a long, downward-extending spout, resembling the neck of a goose. The design of the gooseneck faucet allows for easy filling of large pots and containers, as well as providing a higher clearance for washing dishes. The term "gooseneck" accurately describes the physical characteristics of this type of faucet.

The presence of a water closet (toilet) in an unlit or unventilated room contradicts the basic plumbing principles. Plumbing systems should be maintained in a sanitary and serviceable condition, which includes proper lighting and ventilation to ensure a healthy and safe environment. Without adequate lighting and ventilation, the room may become unsanitary and unpleasant to use. Therefore, locating a water closet in such conditions violates the basic principles of plumbing.

A trap is a fitting or device that is specifically designed to create a liquid seal, preventing the backflow and passage of foul air and gases. It is important for maintaining proper ventilation in sewage or wastewater systems. Despite its function, the trap does not significantly impede the flow of sewage or wastewater through the system.

The prescribed shape of water closet bowl for installation in public places such as commercial centers, offices, airports, etc. is elongated. This shape is preferred because it offers more comfort and space compared to a round bowl. It provides additional legroom and a larger seating area, making it suitable for longer periods of use. The elongated shape also promotes better hygiene and cleanliness due to its design, making it a practical choice for high-traffic public areas.

A flushometer valve is typically installed in a urinal.

Grey water refers to wastewater that is generated from activities such as laundry, bathing, and washing dishes, but does not include sewage from toilets. Unlike black water, which contains human waste and is highly contaminated, grey water is relatively clean and can be reused for purposes like irrigation or flushing toilets. Contaminated water refers to any water source that has been polluted or contains harmful substances, while hard water refers to water that contains high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium. Therefore, grey water is the correct answer as it specifically describes non-sewage wastewater from household activities.

The P-trap is classified as a permissible trap because it effectively prevents sewer gases from entering the building while still allowing water to flow freely. It is shaped like a "P" and is commonly used in plumbing systems to create a water seal that prevents odors and gases from escaping through the drain. The P-trap is considered a standard and widely accepted trap design in plumbing installations.

All of the water closet designs mentioned in the options (hopper, plunger, and pan) are prohibited by code due to their insanitary features. This implies that all of these designs have characteristics that make them unsuitable for use and potentially unhygienic.

A septic tank is a watertight compartment that is specifically designed to receive and treat the discharge from a sanitary plumbing system. It is constructed to retain solids, allowing them to be digested by bacteria over time. The organic matter is broken down through a process of detention, while the liquid portion is discharged into the soil outside of the tank through a system of open-jointed sub-surface piping or a seepage pit. This ensures that the waste is properly treated and disposed of, making the septic tank an effective solution for managing sewage.

A pressure relief valve is a type of valve used in plumbing systems to prevent or relieve dangerously high pressures. It consists of a control disk that is held in place by an adjustable connection and a spring. When the pressure in the tank or pipe becomes too high, the disk is forced off its seat, allowing the excess pressure to be relieved. This helps to maintain the balance and prevent any potential damage or accidents caused by excessive pressure.

A riser is a water supply pipe that runs vertically from one floor to another, or even multiple floors, to provide water to various fixtures or groups of fixtures. It is called a riser because it rises up through the building, allowing water to be transported efficiently to higher levels.

Roughing-in refers to the installation of essential components of the plumbing system, such as drainage, water supply, vent piping, and pipe supports, before the fixtures or finishing are installed. This allows for the necessary infrastructure to be put in place in advance, ensuring a smoother and more efficient installation process later on.

A ball valve is a type of valve that controls the flow of liquid by using a rotating drilled ball. The ball fits tightly against a flexible seat in the valve body, creating a seal and preventing any leakage. This design allows for precise control over the flow of liquid and ensures a reliable shut-off when needed.

The ventilation system is a portion of the sanitary drainage system installation that is designed to maintain balance atmospheric pressure within the system. This prevents various issues such as trap seal loss, back pressure, siphonage, backflow, retardation of flow, and material deterioration. The ventilation system ensures that the system functions effectively and efficiently by allowing for the proper flow of air and preventing any negative pressure build-up.

A cap is a type of internally threaded galvanized fitting that is used to close the end of an externally threaded pipe. It is designed to fit over the end of the pipe and has internal threads that match the external threads of the pipe. This allows the cap to be screwed onto the pipe, effectively sealing the end and preventing any leakage or entry of unwanted substances. Caps are commonly used in plumbing and piping systems to close off unused or terminated pipes.

A cap is the correct answer because it is a type of internally threaded galvanized fitting specifically designed to close the end of an externally threaded pipe. It is used to seal off the pipe, preventing any leakage or entry of foreign substances. The cap is screwed onto the external threads of the pipe, providing a secure and tight closure.

Galvanized steel pipes come in standard sizes that are widely used in plumbing and industrial applications due to their durability and resistance to corrosion. Common sizes include 1/2", 3/4", and 2 1/2", which are used for various purposes, such as household water lines and larger commercial supply systems. However, 3 1/4" is not a standard size for galvanized steel pipes. Pipe sizes generally increase in recognized increments, and 3 1/4" does not fit into the conventional range, making it the exception among the provided options.

The correct answer is "water supply and distribution system." This term accurately describes the components mentioned in the question, including the water service pipe, building supply pipes, branch pipes, valves, and other necessary elements for supplying water in a building. It encompasses the entire system responsible for delivering water to different parts of the building efficiently and safely.

A water closet is a fixture that has a built-in trap. A trap is a curved section of pipe that holds water and prevents sewer gases from entering the building. In the case of a water closet, the trap is built into the base of the toilet bowl. This design ensures that there is always a barrier of water in the trap, preventing odors from escaping into the bathroom. The other fixtures listed, such as a lavatory, floor drain, and kitchen sink, may have traps as well, but a water closet is specifically designed with a built-in trap.

A flushometer type water closet is equipped with a valve that can be activated using a lever or a push button. This valve allows for the release of a specific amount of water to flush the toilet. Unlike tank type water closets that rely on a tank of water to flush, flushometer type water closets have a direct water supply connection. This design allows for a more efficient and controlled flush, as the user can easily regulate the amount of water released for each flush.

Sanitary wares are made of ceramics due to their durability, resistance to stains, and ease of cleaning. Ceramics are also known for their ability to withstand high temperatures and their non-porous nature, making them hygienic for use in bathrooms and kitchens. Additionally, ceramics offer a wide range of design options, allowing for the creation of various shapes, sizes, and styles of sanitary wares to suit different preferences and needs.

A combination sewer is a type of sewer system that allows for the draining of both sanitary waste and stormwater. This system is designed to handle the disposal of both types of wastewater, preventing the mixing of sanitary waste with stormwater. By having a combination sewer, it ensures that both types of wastewater can be efficiently and effectively drained, reducing the risk of contamination and improving overall sanitation.

The term "battery of fixtures" refers to a group of fixtures that meet certain conditions. These conditions include the fixtures being of similar type and class, such as water closets, lavatories, urinals, etc. Additionally, these fixtures should be connected to a common branch. Lastly, the fixtures should be adjacent to each other. Therefore, the correct answer is "all of these" because all of these conditions must be met for a group of fixtures to be considered a battery of fixtures.

Malleability refers to the property of a material that allows it to be mechanically deformed without breaking or fracturing. Galvanized steel pipe, which is mentioned in the question, exhibits this property. It can be shaped through processes like extrusion, forging, and rolling without experiencing any fractures. Therefore, the correct answer is malleability.

Desalination is the correct answer because it refers to the process of removing salt content from water, making it potable. This is achieved by heating seawater, which causes the water to partially vaporize in low pressure vessels. The resulting water vapor is then condensed and transformed into drinkable water.

All of the mentioned devices, methods or contraptions can prevent backflow in either water supply or drainage systems. A check valve is a mechanical device that allows the flow of fluid in one direction while preventing reverse flow. A backflow preventer is a specialized valve that ensures water flows in one direction only, preventing contamination of the water supply. An air break is a physical gap in a plumbing system that prevents backflow by allowing air to enter the system. Therefore, all of these options are effective in preventing backflow.

A float valve should be installed in a cistern. A cistern is a container that holds water, typically used for storing water for toilets or flushing mechanisms. A float valve is a device that regulates the water level in the cistern by opening or closing a valve based on the water level. By installing a float valve in the cistern, it ensures that the water level remains at the desired level, preventing overflow or inadequate water supply for flushing.

Schedule 40 galvanized steel pipes are commonly prescribed as the standard for most waterline installations and are widely specified for water supply and distribution system applications. This is because schedule 40 pipes have a thicker wall compared to schedule 10 and schedule 30 pipes, providing increased durability and resistance to pressure and corrosion. Schedule 80 pipes, on the other hand, have an even thicker wall, but they are not as commonly used for waterline installations as they are primarily designed for high-pressure applications.

A fitting is a prefabricated plumbing device or item that is used to connect one or more pipes and/or used to change the direction of a straight run of pipes. It is a versatile component that allows for the efficient and effective installation of plumbing systems. Fittings come in various shapes and sizes to accommodate different pipe sizes and configurations, ensuring a secure and leak-free connection. They play a crucial role in the overall functionality and reliability of plumbing systems.

A 1/8 bend or sweep is a fitting that is commonly used in plumbing and piping systems. It is designed to change the direction of the pipe by an angle equivalent to 45 degrees. This fitting allows for a gradual change in direction, reducing the risk of blockages and ensuring smooth flow of fluids or gases through the system. Its angle of 45 degrees makes it suitable for various applications where a slight change in direction is required.

The hydrological cycle refers to the continuous exchange of water within the hydrosphere, including the atmosphere, ground surface, underground, and water surface. This cycle involves processes such as evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and runoff, which play a crucial role in maintaining the distribution and availability of water on Earth.

A wye branch is generally used in sanitary drainage system installation because it allows for a smooth flow of waste and water. It is designed with a Y-shaped branch that connects to the main pipe, allowing waste to be diverted without causing clogs or blockages. The wye branch is an essential fitting in plumbing systems as it helps maintain the proper functioning and efficiency of the drainage system.

A soldered joint is used on copper tubes when making a joint. In this process, a filler metal with a lower melting point than the copper is heated and applied to the joint, creating a bond between the two pieces. This method is commonly used in plumbing and electrical applications, as it provides a strong and reliable connection.

A flushometer valve is a device that is used in conjunction with fixtures like water closets and urinals to release a pre-determined amount of water for flushing. It is activated by the direct water pressure from branch pipes.

Brass is the correct answer because it is a type of pipe that is made from an alloy consisting of 85% copper and 15% zinc. This combination of metals gives brass its unique properties, such as its durability, corrosion resistance, and attractive golden color. Brass pipes are commonly used in plumbing and other applications where strength and resistance to wear and tear are important.

A centrifugal pump is a type of water pump commonly used in houses and buildings. It works by using an impeller mounted on a rotating shaft. As the impeller rotates, it increases the water velocity and forces the water into a casing. This conversion of water velocity into higher pressure results in the water being forced out of the impeller as discharge.

Coagulation is the correct answer because it refers to the process of using hydrate sulfate (alum) to form a gelatinous substance that removes suspended matter and discoloration from water. This process, also known as flocculation, helps in the removal of impurities by causing them to clump together and settle, making it easier to filter them out. Aeration, ultraviolet radiation, and filtration are not suitable answers as they do not involve the use of alum or the formation of a gelatinous substance.

The most common type of water distribution system that relies on the pressure from the water main is the direct (pressure) system. This system directly connects the water main to the buildings and uses the pressure from the main to distribute water throughout the network of pipes. It does not require any additional pumps or storage tanks to maintain the pressure.

A gate valve is used to control or regulate the flow of water in a water supply system along the water service pipe section. This type of valve has a flat closure element that slides perpendicular to the flow, allowing for a full and unobstructed path for the water when fully open. It is commonly used in applications where a tight shut-off is required, as it provides a reliable and efficient means of controlling the water flow.

Type K copper tube is the heaviest among the given options. Copper tubing is categorized based on its thickness, with type K having the thickest walls. This makes it the heaviest option as it contains more copper material compared to the other types. Type K copper tube is commonly used in high-pressure applications such as underground water service lines, fire sprinkler systems, and gas distribution.

The given question asks for examples of plumbing fixtures, and the correct answer is "trap." A trap is a plumbing device used to prevent the backflow of sewer gases into a building. It is typically installed beneath sinks, showers, and other fixtures to trap water and create a barrier between the living space and the sewage system. The other options listed, such as urinal, bidet, and floor drain, are indeed examples of plumbing fixtures, but the trap is not.

Water purification is the correct answer because it is the most encompassing term that refers to the overall process of removing contaminants from water. This process involves various methods and techniques to transform raw water into safe and drinkable water. While water filtration, softening, and desalination are all specific methods of water purification, they do not cover the entire process as comprehensively as the term "water purification" does.

The correct answer is "bell." In the context of pipes, a bell refers to the enlarged end portion of a pipe that allows another pipe of the same or different size to be inserted into it. This term is synonymous with "hub" and is commonly used in plumbing and pipe fittings.

The drainage fixture unit (dfu) value of a fixture indicates its capacity to discharge waste. A fixture with a dfu value of 6 fu can discharge waste at a rate of 6 cubic feet per minute (cu ft/min). This means that the fixture can handle a flow of waste at this rate without any issues. Therefore, the correct answer is 6 cu ft/min.