What two aspects are evaluated in valve selection to determine suitability for handling a fluid?

The correct choice focuses on evaluating the properties and characteristics of the fluid to determine the suitability of a valve for handling it. Understanding the properties refers to the inherent qualities of the fluid, such as its chemical composition, corrosiveness, and whether it is gas, liquid, or a slurry, which can significantly affect the type of materials and design required for the valve. Characteristics may involve the operational factors, including flow rate, potential for cavitation, and how the fluid behaves under different conditions.

These aspects are crucial in ensuring that the selected valve will perform effectively and safely without failure or leakage during operation. The properties and characteristics of the fluid give engineers the information they need to choose the right materials and design features for the valve, ensuring compatibility and reliability in the system.

The other choices, while they may sometimes be relevant in specific contexts, do not comprehensively cover the full scope of evaluation necessary for valve selection. For example, temperature and pressure are indeed important factors, but they are elements of the broader properties and characteristics analysis. Similarly, color and viscosity, as well as density and mass, do not encompass the extensive array of considerations needed for suitable valve selection.