Interior partition walls are built with lighter-weight, ? studs.

The correct answer is based on the common practice when constructing interior partition walls, which typically utilize lighter-weight materials to facilitate ease of installation and reduce the load on the overall structure. In the context of gauge thickness for studs, 25-gauge metal studs are commonly used as they provide a balance of strength and lightweight properties, making them suitable for non-load-bearing interior walls.

Using 25-gauge studs helps ensure durability while allowing for simpler handling during the construction process. This makes them an optimal choice for interior applications, where heavy structural support is not required. In contrast, other gauges like 20-gauge or 24-gauge may be too heavy for such applications, leading to unnecessary complications in construction and design. 30-gauge, while lighter, might not offer the structural integrity needed for most interior partition applications.