Choosing Between Steel or Aluminum Tape Measure

Which tape measure should Pedro purchase if he wants the one that expands and contracts less?

a) Steel tape measure
b) Aluminum tape measure

Answer:

The contractor Pedro should opt for the steel tape measure since it expands and contracts less than an aluminum one due to steel having a lower coefficient of linear thermal expansion.

Pedro, the contractor, should choose the steel tape measure if he wants the one that expands and contracts less. This recommendation is based on the concept of thermal expansion. Different materials expand and contract differently with changes in temperature. In this case, steel and aluminum are considered. Aluminum has a higher coefficient of linear thermal expansion than steel, meaning it will expand and contract more with temperature changes than steel will. As a result, if Pedro uses the tape measure outside in varying temperatures, the measurements from an aluminum tape measure may be less reliable than those from a steel one.

Steel is known for its durability and stability under various conditions, making it a reliable choice for contractors like Pedro who require accurate measurements in their work. By choosing the steel tape measure, Pedro can ensure more consistent and precise results, ultimately contributing to the quality of his projects.