What is one common cause of cavitation in a pump system?

Cavitation in a pump system is primarily caused by an inadequate supply of water. When the pump does not receive enough water to maintain the required flow, the pressure at the pump inlet can drop significantly. This drop in pressure may reach the vapor pressure of the liquid, leading to the formation of vapor bubbles. When these bubbles travel through the pump and enter higher pressure areas, they collapse with great force, causing damage to the pump components and reducing efficiency.

The other choices do not directly lead to cavitation. Low temperatures can affect water density and viscosity but are not a primary cause of cavitation. High pressure in the discharge line might seem counterintuitive, but it typically does not create the conditions needed for cavitation. Lastly, open intake valves are necessary for proper pump operation and do not contribute to cavitation, as their role ensures that water can flow into the pump unobstructed.