If a higher than normal water level is observed through the inspection port of a flash evaporator, you should suspect __________.

Correct Answer: Option C — a malfunctioning brine pump

Flash evaporators rely on brine pumps to maintain the correct liquid level by discharging concentrated brine overboard. A malfunctioning pump fails to remove the brine at the required rate, causing the level to rise within the shell, which can lead to carryover and contamination of the distillate.