Final answer:
Split-ball gages cannot detect out-of-round conditions because they only measure the diameter at a single point and cannot adapt to varying shapes around the circumference of the object.
so the correct answer is Option B
Step-by-step explanation:
Split-ball gages are unable to detect out-of-round conditions because they only measure diameter. These gages work by using a split-ball probe that expands within the hole or cylindrical object being measured. As the ball expands, it makes contact with the surface at a single point along the diameter.
However, because they are designed to provide a measurement of diameter at a specific point, split-ball gages cannot assess the shape of the entire circumference simultaneously. Consequently, if the cylindrical object is out-of-round but still has the same average diameter, a split-ball gage may indicate that the diameter is within acceptable limits.
An out-of-round condition refers to a scenario where the cross-section of a cylinder does not form a perfect circle but instead has distortions or variations along the circumference. Given that split-ball gages do not make contact at multiple points around the circumference, they cannot adapt to varying shapes and, therefore, cannot accurately measure the roundness of an object.
the correct answer is Option B