Final answer:
A trap primer is a device that adds water to the trap to replace water lost through evaporation. It helps maintain the water seal in the trap and prevents odors from escaping into the building.
Step-by-step explanation:
The device shown in the figure is called a trap primer. Its function is to add water to the trap to replace water lost through evaporation. When water evaporates from the trap, it can cause the trap to become dry, leading to the release of foul odors from the sewage system into the building. The trap primer is connected to the fresh water supply system, and it releases a small amount of water into the trap periodically to maintain the water seal and prevent the escape of odors.