What is the term for water that is not moving?

The term for water that is not moving is static head. This concept is essential in understanding hydrostatics, which deals with fluids at rest. Static head refers to the potential energy in a fluid due to its elevation, and it is the height of the water column above a certain point. This height influences the pressure and gravitational forces acting on the water.

Understanding static head is crucial in water distribution systems because it helps determine the pressure available at different points in the system, particularly when assessing the capacity and efficiency of pumps and other components. It contrasts with dynamic conditions, where water is in motion, impacting pressure and energy in different ways.

In water systems, recognizing the static head is pivotal for ensuring adequate delivery of water by accounting for elevation differences between the source and the delivery point. This knowledge is fundamental for designing and maintaining effective water distribution networks.