What characteristic differentiates a SAE Grade 5 bolt from a SAE Grade 8 bolt?

The characteristic that differentiates a SAE Grade 5 bolt from a SAE Grade 8 bolt is primarily related to their tensile strength and the capacity to withstand higher tension and stress. Grade 5 bolts are manufactured from medium carbon steel and are quenched and tempered, resulting in a tensile strength of approximately 120,000 psi. On the other hand, Grade 8 bolts are made from a higher-grade material and undergo additional processes that enable them to achieve a tensile strength of around 150,000 psi or more.

This difference in tensile strength makes Grade 8 bolts suitable for heavy-duty applications where high loads and stress are common, such as in automotive and structural applications, while Grade 5 bolts are used in a variety of general-purpose applications but are not designed to handle the same level of stress. Understanding this distinction is crucial for selecting the appropriate fastener for specific applications, ensuring safety and integrity in construction and installation projects. The other options are inaccurate as they do not accurately represent the proper usage or characteristics of these grades of bolts.