Final answer:
A lift station is a pumping system used for pumping waste water from a lower to a higher elevation to assist with sewage transportation when gravity flow is impractical.
Step-by-step explanation:
The device used for pumping waste water from a lower to a higher elevation when the elevation is not sufficient for gravity flow is known as a lift station. Lift stations, also called pump stations, are essential components of wastewater treatment systems. They use pumps to elevate sewage from lower grounds to treatment facilities, which often rely on gravity for the subsequent treatment process. This is critical in preventing excessive excavation and reducing construction costs, especially in places where gravity flow is impractical. Lift stations stand in contrast to devices like sump pumps, which are used to remove water from areas like basements that are below the water table.