Which of the following is a primary factor in selecting the type of pump for a specific application?

Selecting the appropriate pump for a specific application hinges significantly on the characteristics of the fluid being pumped. Fluid characteristics include factors such as viscosity, temperature, density, and corrosiveness. These elements influence the pump's design and operation, as different types of pumps are optimized for specific fluid behaviors. For example, viscous fluids may require positive displacement pumps, while lighter fluids can effectively be managed by centrifugal pumps.

The pump's compatibility with the characteristics of the fluid ensures efficient performance and longevity. If a pump is chosen without careful consideration of these characteristics, it may lead to operational inefficiencies, mechanical failure, or even complete system shutdown.

While other factors such as price, the size of the pump, and the number of pumps in the system do play a role in the overall pumping system design, they are secondary to the fundamental requirement that the pump must suit the fluid being handled. Therefore, fluid characteristics stand as the primary focus in determining the right pump for the application.