Final answer:
Columns in a wall are spaced according to specific engineering and structural design requirements. While lumber studs are typically 16.0 inches (40.64 cm) apart, column spacing might differ, with older rules suggesting 5-8 diameters apart and newer suggestions proposing up to 15 diameters deep.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question asks about the spacing of columns within a wall which relates to structural design in construction engineering. According to conventional practice, vertical studs in lumber construction, which can be analogous to the columns in a wall, are placed 16.0 inches apart on center. This distance, in centimeters, is approximately 40.64 cm. Referring to the 'rule of thumb' provided, column spacing might vary based on diameter size, with an older conception suggesting a spacing of 5 to 7-8 diameters side-to-side and deep, respectively, and newer work proposing as much as 8 diameters side-to-side and 15 diameters deep.
Considering the practical approach, the actual spacing may differ slightly with columns on the edges being closer to each other, as Beth's observation points out. Therefore, in terms of conventional lumber stud spacing and column placement based on diameter, there isn't a one-size-fits-all answer for the spacing of columns in a wall. Specific engineering calculations based on the building design, intended loads, and structural requirements will dictate the exact spacing needed.