Regarding the high-pressure pump of a reverse-osmosis freshwater generator, what statement is true?

Correct Answer: Option A — The high-pressure pump is typically a multiple-cylinder reciprocating pump, but may be a multi-stage centrifugal pump.

Reverse osmosis requires high-pressure feed to overcome osmotic pressure. Multi-cylinder reciprocating pumps are common for their ability to handle high pressures efficiently, while multi-stage centrifugal pumps are utilized in larger systems to achieve the necessary pressure head required to force water through the dense membrane modules.