Final answer:
The early estimate of 3 inches for the clearance was inaccurate compared to the final value, which was closer to 10 feet (120 inches). Option 3.
Step-by-step explanation:
Understanding Clearance Measurements
Regarding the clearance between the wall and a temporary handrail, an early estimate of 3 inches was considered. However, this measure was significantly lower than the final approximate value, which aligned more closely with a different early estimate of 10 feet (120 inches). This discrepancy between the initial guesstimate and the carefully calculated approximation indicates the importance of precise measurement in engineering and construction. The exercise demonstrates that while guesstimates can be quick, they may lead to inaccurate conclusions. Instead, relying on carefully calculated approximations can provide results that are much closer to the actual required measurements, ensuring that the construction meets safety and design standards.
The contrast between the two different estimates highlights the value of applying a rigorous calculation method over relying solely on intuition for making important measurements, especially in contexts where precision is critical for structural integrity and safety compliance.