USCG Exam PracticeDanger bearings and danger circles
A sectored light shows different colors in defined arcs of bearing. What is the primary navigational use of a sectored light for a mariner?
- A. To identify the light's nominal range at night
- B. To determine the vessel's speed over ground
- ✓ To indicate whether the vessel is in safe or dangerous water based on the color observedCorrect
- D. To serve as a leading light when aligned with a second light
Why C is correct
Per the Light List, a sectored light shows different colours in defined arcs of bearing, and the mariner's bearing through the sectors indicates safe versus danger water. The color observed by the mariner reveals which sector — and therefore which water — the vessel is in.