For any given volume of compressed air produced by a multistage air compressor, inter stage cooling will __________.

Correct Answer: Option A — decrease the power required for compression

Interstage cooling reduces the temperature of the air between compression stages, which significantly lowers the work required for the subsequent stage. By approaching isothermal compression rather than adiabatic compression, the compressor operates more efficiently, consumes less power, and minimizes thermal stress on the compressor components and discharge valves.