What could happen if the elongation is not measured correctly, particularly if the bed length is more than 50'?

The correct answer highlights the importance of precise measurements in the context of elongation when dealing with bed lengths greater than 50 feet. Accurate elongation measurements are crucial in ensuring that the prestressed products meet required specifications and performance criteria. When dealing with longer bed lengths, even minor discrepancies in measurements can lead to significant errors, affecting both the structural integrity and overall quality of the final product.

Requiring measurement to the nearest 1/4 inch reflects a standard practice that helps to mitigate the potential for these errors, ensuring that any variations are accounted for and properly addressed. This level of precision is essential for effective prestressing, where exact elongations directly influence the mechanical properties of the materials used.

In contrast, the other options imply a misunderstanding of the critical nature of measurement in this context. Suggesting that measurements could be skipped altogether or that they would not affect quality contradicts the fundamental principles of precision engineering, particularly in construction and manufacturing processes. Furthermore, the notion that results would be accurate without proper measurement fails to acknowledge the inherent risks involved in working with long spans and prestressing techniques. Overall, maintaining a stringent standard for measurement is vital for the safe and effective production of prestressed products.