If a pole has a diameter of 10 inches, what should be the diameter of the hole for proper tamping?

To ensure proper tamping of a pole with a diameter of 10 inches, the hole must be larger than the pole itself. This allows for sufficient space to efficiently tamp the surrounding material, providing stability to the pole.

In this case, a diameter of 16 inches offers a suitable margin of space around the pole, facilitating effective tamping. This measurement ensures that when soil or other materials are packed around the pole, there is enough room for them to be applied evenly and firmly without crowding the pole itself. Proper tamping is crucial for maintaining the structural integrity of the pole and for preventing any shifting or sinking over time.

The other options—12 inches, 14 inches, and 18 inches—do not provide the optimal balance. While a 12-inch or 14-inch hole may not allow enough room for adequate tamping, an 18-inch hole also exceeds the necessary width and may lead to inefficiencies in the tamping process or wasted materials. Thus, a 16-inch diameter strikes the right balance for effective support and stability for the pole.