Which of the following is a proper use for a sledgehammer?

Using a sledgehammer to drive stakes into the ground is a proper application due to its design and weight. A sledgehammer is specifically made for heavy-duty tasks and can exert significant force, making it effective for driving objects like stakes deep into the soil. The bulk and heft of the sledgehammer allow for powerful strikes, which are necessary when dealing with tougher materials or when needing to penetrate the ground. This contrasts with other options, where a sledgehammer's size and force would be too excessive or inappropriate for the task at hand, such as in precision woodworking or cautious tapping.