What should water lines be capable of delivering?

The correct answer of 50 GPM at 50 psi reflects the typical requirements for water lines in many industrial and residential applications. This standard ensures that a sufficient flow rate is available to meet the demands for various uses such as firefighting, irrigation, or domestic consumption.

Delivering 50 gallons per minute at a pressure of 50 psi strikes a good balance between adequate pressure for pushing water through systems and maintaining a sufficient flow rate for multiple fixtures or fire-related needs. Industries and municipalities often specify these parameters to ensure that the water supply system can perform effectively under typical usage conditions, providing both pressure and volume that are essential for efficient operation.

In comparison, the other choices may not meet the general needs for adequate water supply in practical applications. For instance, the lower flow rates offered in the other options may not support simultaneous usage across multiple outlets or meet emergency requirements such as firefighting, which often necessitates higher flow rates. Proper water delivery standards are critical in ensuring that systems meet users' needs, especially in situations where water demand can spike unexpectedly.