In core placement, what role does the term "target yield" play?

In the context of core placement, the term "target yield" is essential for calculating the number of cores needed for the evaluation. Target yield refers to the expected quantity of asphalt that should be produced or placed in a given area, which allows engineers and technicians to estimate how many core samples are necessary to adequately represent the asphalt layer's quality and characteristics. By understanding the target yield, one can determine how many cores will provide an accurate sampling of the asphalt to assess its thickness, density, and overall performance.

Other options focus on different aspects of asphalt but do not relate directly to the calculation of core samples. The strength of asphalt involves its material properties, the rate of asphalt application deals with the volume spread during paving, and identifying core locations is more about ensuring uniform sampling across the depth rather than directly tied to the target yield. Thus, the focus on calculating the number of cores needed clearly highlights the correct role of "target yield" in core placement.