How should sprinkler spacing be determined in relation to walls?

Determining sprinkler spacing in relation to walls is crucial for ensuring effective coverage and performance of the sprinkler system. The correct choice states that the spacing must not exceed a specified fraction of the spacing between sprinklers. This ensures that water distribution remains uniform and that areas near walls receive adequate coverage.

The rationale behind this requirement stems from the fact that walls can obstruct water spray from a sprinkler head, thus potentially leaving parts of the area unprotected. By adhering to a guideline where the distance from the wall does not exceed a fraction of the sprinkler spacing, you can optimize the system's design to promote effective water distribution and minimize dry spots.

Additionally, this approach takes into account the nature of the spray patterns produced by various sprinkler types. Sprinklers typically have a defined area of coverage that diminishes as distance from the sprinkler increases, especially when uneven surfaces or obstructions like walls are present.

In contrast, other options suggest maintaining equal distances or limits that are too stringent, which might not account for practical variations in wall configurations and room layouts. Thus, the specified fraction of the spacing allows for sufficient flexibility while still maintaining effective coverage near walls.