The correct answer is: A. has three distinct rates of failure.
The reliability life cycle of a product is a graph that shows the probability of failure of a product over time. The graph typically has three distinct rates of failure:
- The infant mortality rate: This is the initial period of high failure rates, which is caused by defects in the product or manufacturing process.
- The useful life: This is the period of time during which the product is expected to operate without failure.
- The wear-out rate: This is the final period of high failure rates, which is caused by wear and tear on the product.
The reliability life cycle of a product can be predicted by using statistical methods to estimate the probability of failure at each point in time. The reliability life cycle can also be improved by designing the product to be more reliable and by using quality control procedures to reduce defects.
Option B is incorrect because the reliability life cycle of a product can be predicted. Option C is incorrect because the reliability life cycle of a product does not stay constant with environmental conditions. Option D is incorrect because the reliability life cycle of a product does not stay constant with environmental conditions. Option E is incorrect because the reliability life cycle of a product has three distinct rates of failure.