Final answer:
No, extension lines should not touch the outline of an object in technical drawings, as they serve to indicate dimensions and should maintain clarity without obscuring the object's visible edges.
Step-by-step explanation:
No, extension lines should not touch the outline of the object. Extension lines are used in technical drawing as a means to create dimensions; they extend from the object to the dimension lines. The main purpose of an extension line is to show where a dimension begins and ends on an object's surface without obscuring or altering its visible outline. This technique helps in maintaining the clarity and accuracy of the drawing.
Outlines, on the other hand, define the shape of an object. An outline is a line that encircles the edges of a shape to show its external boundary without providing dimensional information. It is crucial to keep extension lines separate from outlines to avoid any confusion and maintain the integrity of the measurement. Typically, a small gap is left between the end of the extension line and the object's outline to clearly distinguish between them.
In summary, ensuring that extension lines do not touch the object's outline is essential for maintaining a clear, precise, and professional technical drawing.