Which of the following pipes can only be used in residential buildings with 5 stories or less?

The correct answer is that PVC pipe can only be used in residential buildings with five stories or less due to its material properties and building codes. PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, is a type of plastic pipe commonly used for drainage, waste, and vent systems in lower-rise buildings. Its lightweight nature and cost-effectiveness make it popular for residential applications. However, building codes restrict its use in taller structures primarily because PVC is not as durable under high-pressure conditions and elevated temperatures compared to other materials, which can be critical in larger buildings.

Ductile iron and stainless steel are both materials that can easily handle the stresses involved in taller buildings, as they offer superior strength and durability. Polyolefin is a versatile thermoplastic, but it also does not meet the structural integrity requirements for systems in buildings taller than five stories. Thus, while PVC has significant uses in certain contexts, its limitations restrict it to shorter buildings.