When striking an arc in SMAW,what is the general rule for arc length? half the length of the electrode metal core twice the diameter of the electrode metal core metal core __ the same as the diameter of the electrode metal core

## Step 1<br />The problem is about the general rule for arc length when striking an arc in Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW). The arc length is the distance between the electrode and the workpiece during welding.<br /><br />## Step 2<br />The options provided are:<br />- Half the length of the electrode metal core<br />- Twice the diameter of the electrode metal core<br />- The same as the diameter of the electrode metal core<br /><br />## Step 3<br />The correct answer is "the same as the diameter of the electrode metal core". This is because the arc length should be approximately the same as the diameter of the electrode metal core. This is a general rule in welding to ensure a stable and consistent arc.