In a boiling curve, the peak heat flux is called the __________ point.

ANS:D - burnout

In a boiling curve, the peak heat flux is called the "burnout" point. Burnout, also known as critical heat flux (CHF), occurs when the heat flux applied to the boiling surface reaches its maximum limit, leading to a sudden decrease in heat transfer efficiency. At this point, the surface temperature can rise rapidly, causing localized overheating and potentially damaging the equipment. The burnout point is an important consideration in the design and operation of systems involving boiling, such as heat exchangers and nuclear reactors, as it represents a limit beyond which the system cannot effectively transfer heat without risking damage.