Final answer:
Wall studs are typically made out of softwood because it offers the optimal blend of strength, flexibility, and workability. The 16-inch spacing between studs translates to 40.64 centimeters.
Step-by-step explanation:
The type of lumber typically recommended for wall studs is softwood. Softwoods, like pine, spruce, and fir, are preferred for framing due to their strength, flexibility, and ease of use.
In contrast, hardwoods are generally more expensive and harder to work with, making them less desirable for standard wall framing. Plywood and particleboard are engineered woods that are not used for the structural framing of walls but can be used for other purposes such as sheathing or layering over studs.
In regards to the distance between wall studs, which is mentioned as being 16.0 inches apart, the conversion to centimeters can be made by understanding that one inch equals 2.54 centimeters. Therefore, the distance between studs when converted is 40.64 centimeters.