USCG Exam PracticeDanger bearings and danger circles
A sectored light displays different colors in defined arcs of bearing. What is the primary navigational purpose of such a light?
- A. To indicate the light's nominal range in each direction
- B. To mark the boundary between international and inland waters
- ✓ To indicate to the mariner whether the vessel is in safe or dangerous water based on the color observedCorrect
- D. To provide a range and bearing fix when used 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 tells the mariner which sector — and therefore which water — the vessel is in.