Final answer:
Partial height metal stud walls in seismic areas provide structural support, reduce overall weight and improve acoustics.
Step-by-step explanation:
The purpose of partial height metal stud walls in seismic areas is to provide structural support to the building. These walls are designed to withstand earthquake forces and help in increasing the stability of the structure.
By dividing the walls into partial heights, the building is able to reduce the overall weight, which can have a positive impact on the seismic performance. Additionally, these walls can also contribute to improving the acoustics of the space.