16. The author implies that the capacity to measure directly the residual stress in a load-bearing structure allows engineers to do which of the following?
Answer: C
Engineers can make load-bearing structures more economical to build by optimizing material usage.
By measuring the residual stresses directly, engineers can optimize the design and material specifications of load-bearing structures, allowing for a reduction in the amount or size of materials needed, thereby making the structures more economical.
A) Reduce the likelihood that the structure will fail due to the failure of its smallest structural elements
While measuring residual stresses may help in understanding structural integrity, the primary focus of the measurement is not solely on preventing failure of small elements. The emphasis is on optimizing overall material use and design efficiency rather than just minimizing failure risk.
B) Invent new manufacturing processes that will allow the traditional materials of the structure to be strengthened by beneficial residual stresses
Although understanding residual stresses can lead to better manufacturing practices, the statement about inventing new processes is not directly implied by the capability to measure these stresses. The focus is more on optimizing existing structures rather than creating entirely new manufacturing techniques.
C) Make the load-bearing structure more economical to build by reducing the amount or size of the materials used in it
This option aligns perfectly with the author's implication. By understanding and measuring residual stresses, engineers can design structures that use less material while still maintaining safety and performance, thus enhancing economic viability.
D) Accommodate the residual stresses by specifying manufacturing processes that offset or balance the predicted residual stresses
While accommodating residual stresses is an important consideration, the emphasis in the extract is on measurement leading to design optimization rather than merely offsetting stresses through manufacturing processes.
E) Use nontraditional materials in the manufacture of load-bearing structures
Although the extract discusses the use of nontraditional materials, the direct implication of measuring residual stresses is more about optimizing existing structures rather than specifically encouraging the use of new materials.
Conclusion
The ability to measure residual stresses directly empowers engineers to refine their designs, ultimately leading to more economical construction of load-bearing structures by optimizing material use. Other options either misinterpret the implications of the measurements or focus on aspects not emphasized in the extract, making option C the definitive choice.