Exhaust manifold expansion and contraction due to thermal conditions has been improved by having the manifold ____________.

The expansion and contraction of the exhaust manifold due to thermal conditions is a critical factor in engine design. When the engine operates, the temperature can fluctuate significantly, causing materials to expand when heated and contract as they cool. Designing the exhaust manifold as a multi-section component allows for greater flexibility in accommodating these thermal variations.

Using multiple sections means that individual parts can move somewhat independently during heating and cooling cycles, thus reducing the stress that could otherwise lead to warping, cracking, or leaking. This design can also help in aligning the manifold more precisely with the exhaust ports on the engine, which can improve sealing and reduce the likelihood of exhaust leaks.

In contrast, a single-component design could increase the likelihood of stress concentration due to rigid constraints on expansion and contraction. Similarly, eliminating gaskets or using specific types of seals may not address the fundamental issue of thermal movement as effectively as the multi-section approach does.