What does static head refer to in a water system?

Static head refers to the pressure exerted by the weight of water due to its elevation or depth in a system. It is defined as the vertical distance between the water source and the point of measurement, typically measured in feet or meters. This pressure is a crucial factor in hydraulic systems because it influences how water moves through pipes and containers.

In water systems, the static head is fundamental for understanding how gravity affects water flow. Water at a higher elevation has greater potential energy, which translates to increased pressure. This means that the deeper or higher the water level, the more static head and pressure it exerts on the system's components, such as pipes and valves.

Other factors listed in the options, such as pressure from water velocity, temperature, or pump operation, do not represent static head. These factors can affect overall system pressure but are not related to the static head, which is solely based on elevation and the gravitational force acting on the water.