According to the NEC®, an 8 AWG bare stranded copper conductor has a cross-sectional area of ____ square inches.

The correct answer to the question regarding the cross-sectional area of an 8 AWG bare stranded copper conductor is based on the established values in the National Electrical Code (NEC). For an 8 AWG copper conductor, the standard cross-sectional area is approximately 0.017 square inches.

This measurement is crucial because it helps determine the conductor's ampacity and, subsequently, its suitability for various electrical applications. Understanding conductor sizes and their corresponding cross-sectional areas ensures safe and efficient electrical installations.

Other options represent incorrect values for the cross-sectional area of an 8 AWG conductor, reflecting either larger or smaller sizes that do not align with NEC specifications for this gauge of wire. This reinforces the importance of familiarity with wire sizes and standards in electrical work.