Which of the following is a common property of multigrade oils?

Multigrade oils are designed to perform effectively over a wide range of temperatures, making the property of a wide temperature range a defining characteristic. This is achieved through the use of polymers that help stabilize the oil's viscosity, allowing it to maintain appropriate lubrication under varying thermal conditions. For instance, the oil remains sufficiently fluid at low temperatures for easier starting of engines while maintaining thickness at high temperatures to provide effective protection against wear.

In contrast, high volatility is typically not a desired trait in multigrade oils, as high volatility can lead to significant oil loss at elevated temperatures. Low viscosity would imply a thinner oil, which would not adequately protect engine parts in a high-temperature scenario, nor would it match the performance characteristics needed for multigrade oils. Fixed viscosity would imply that the oil maintains the same thickness regardless of temperature, which is contrary to the very purpose of multigrade oils designed to adapt to changing temperatures.

Thus, the ability to function across a wide temperature range is essential for various applications, especially in vehicles, as it helps ensure proper engine operation in different climates and under various driving conditions.