1. We are asked to find the volume of a rectangular prism (balk) with edge lengths 1.7 cm, 2 cm, and 3.4 cm. 2. The formula for the volume $V$ of a rectangular prism is: $$V = l \times w \times h$$ where $l$, $w$, and $h$ are the lengths of the edges. 3. Substitute the given values: $$V = 1.7 \times 2 \times 3.4$$ 4. Calculate step-by-step: $$1.7 \times 2 = 3.4$$ $$3.4 \times 3.4 = 11.56$$ 5. Therefore, the volume of the balk is: $$\boxed{11.56\text{ cm}^3}$$