Which of the following is a characteristic of resistance spot welding?

Resistance spot welding, a commonly used welding process, excels particularly in joining thin and light gauge sheet metal. This method utilizes heat generated from electrical resistance to bond overlapping sheets together at specific points, making it highly effective for applications like automotive manufacturing where such materials are prevalent. The ability to produce strong, localized welds with minimal impact on the surrounding area is key to its effectiveness for lighter materials, allowing for quick production processes without significant deformation or stress.

While resistance spot welding is versatile, it is not typically applied to heavy structural components, which often require different types of welding methods suitable for thicker materials. Non-metallic materials are also not compatible with this process, as it relies on the conductivity of metals to generate the necessary heat. Moreover, the process is designed to minimize the need for extensive post-weld treatments, which is another distinction that underscores its efficiency in manufacturing settings.

Therefore, the characteristic that best describes resistance spot welding is its suitability for joining light gauge sheet metal, making option C the correct choice.