If a centrifugal pump were continually operated with the discharge valve closed, the __________.

Correct Answer: Option B — pump would eventually overheat

Operating a centrifugal pump at shutoff head causes the fluid within the casing to recirculate, absorbing energy as heat. Without a bypass or flow, the temperature of the trapped liquid rises rapidly, leading to thermal expansion, potential seizure of internal clearances, and catastrophic damage to the pump components.