What is a water main?

A water main refers to a principal pipe that is essential for a municipal water system, functioning as the main conduit for delivering potable water from the treatment facilities to consumers. It plays a vital role in the distribution network by connecting water sources like treatment plants to various secondary pipes, which branch off to supply water to homes, businesses, and fire hydrants within a community.

Understanding this definition is crucial, as it illustrates the primary purpose of a water main in ensuring accessible water supply. The other options describe components or devices related to water supply but do not fulfill the same fundamental role as a water main. Secondary pipes work alongside mains but serve a different function, while storage tanks are essential for holding treated water before distribution, and flow measurement devices assist in managing water usage and system monitoring but do not transport water themselves.