If a reciprocating air compressor has cylinder suction or discharge valves that fail to properly seat, what statement is true concerning the result?

Correct Answer: Option D — The compressor would have longer running periods at lower displacement capacity between operating cycles.

Leaking valves allow compressed air to bypass the cylinder, reducing volumetric efficiency. Because the compressor moves less air per stroke, it must run for longer periods to satisfy the system demand, while the actual air delivery rate remains lower than the design capacity.