20. Cavitation in a hydraulic pump is indicated by noisy pump operation and can be caused by a/an __________.

A clogged suction strainer restricts fluid flow to the pump, reducing inlet pressure and causing cavitation, which manifests as noisy pump operation. Cavitation results from pressure dropping below the fluid's vapor pressure, and is directly linked to inadequate suction conditions, unlike issues with fluid floc point, discharge pressure, or reservoir fluid level.