Water lost from a cooling tower by evaporation is replenished by?

The process of evaporation in cooling towers results in a loss of water, which must then be replaced to maintain proper functioning. Makeup water is specifically designated for this purpose, as it replenishes the water that's lost during the cooling process. This water can come from various sources, typically treated to meet the necessary quality standards required for efficient cooling tower operation.

Using makeup water ensures that the system remains balanced in terms of water supply, preventing issues like overheating and maintaining optimal performance. Additionally, makeup water can be sourced from various supplies, including treated municipal water, surface water, or even groundwater, but its primary role is to replace evaporated water effectively.

In contrast, while rainwater and recycled wastewater can be used in certain contexts, they are not the standard or primary means of replenishing water in cooling towers. Well water could be an option in some systems but is less common compared to the standardized use of makeup water specifically designed for this application.