Final answer:
The standard distance to stay away from the edges with drywall screws is 1/2 inch, which ensures the integrity of the sheetrock. This detail is important when constructing a wall with thermal insulation properties, as described in the problem related to the rate of heat flow through a well-insulated exterior wall.
Step-by-step explanation:
When installing sheetrock, which is also known as drywall, it's important to place the drywall screws at a proper distance from the edges to prevent damage to the sheetrock. The correct distance to stay away from the edges with the drywall screws is 1/2 inch, which is not listed as an option in the multiple-choice question provided. This distance helps to prevent the edges from crumbling or cracking when the screws are inserted.
The question relates to a more complex situation involving an exterior wall of a house which involves calculating the rate of heat flow through the wall. The wall has a certain R-value due to the layers of materials used, and the heat flow rate can be calculated using the temperature difference between the inside and the outside of the wall. However, this is a separate problem that requires knowledge of thermal conductivity and does not directly relate to the placement of drywall screws.