Cavitation is a phenomenon that occurs when rapid changes in pressure lead to the formation and collapse of small vapor-filled bubbles in a liquid. This process typically happens in fluids when they are subjected to high-speed movement or changes in pressure, such as in pumps, propellers, or turbines. When these bubbles collapse, they can create shock waves that may cause damage to nearby surfaces. Cavitation can be both beneficial and harmful. In some applications, like ultrasonic cleaning, it is used to remove dirt and contaminants. However, in machinery like ship propellers or hydraulic systems, cavitation can lead to erosion and reduced efficiency, making it a critical factor to manage in engineering design.