What is the maximum vertical load a fully collapsed 3 ft metal shore can withstand?

A fully collapsed 3 ft metal shore is designed based on its structural capabilities to support a specific load. The maximum vertical load that a fully collapsed metal shore can withstand is determined by its material strength, design specifications, and intended use.

In this case, the correct choice indicates that a fully collapsed 3 ft metal shore can support up to 20,000 lbs. This figure typically reflects standard engineering practices and safety factors that consider the design limits of metal shoring equipment. Metal shores are commonly used in construction and engineering to provide temporary support during excavation or construction activities. They need to be robust enough to handle significant loads, which aligns with the correct answer.

Choosing any other load value may indicate either an underestimation or overestimation of the metal shore's capacity, which is not aligned with established information regarding their load-bearing characteristics in practical scenarios. Understanding the correct limit is vital for ensuring safety and proper usage of shoring equipment.