What is the term for the graphic representation of product failures over its lifespan?

The correct term for the graphic representation of product failures over its lifespan is known as the "bathtub curve." This curve is a commonly used model in reliability engineering that illustrates the failure rates of products over time.

The bathtub curve typically has three distinct phases:

1. The initial phase, often referred to as the "infant mortality phase," where the failure rate is high due to early-life defects or inadequacies in manufacturing.
2. The second phase, which is the "normal life phase," where the failure rate stabilizes and is relatively low for the majority of the product’s useful life.
3. The third phase, known as the "wear-out phase," where the failure rate increases again as the product reaches the end of its life.

Understanding the bathtub curve is crucial for organizations aimed at improving product reliability and minimizing failures throughout the product lifecycle. This model helps managers in making informed decisions about product maintenance, warranties, and improvements in design and manufacturing processes.

While other options have their specific meanings within quality management and product lifecycle discussions, they do not accurately represent the comprehensive visualization of product failures over time that is encapsulated in the bathtub curve.