USCG Exam PracticeAnchoring and mooring operations
An anchor holds best when the pull on the shank is horizontal. Which of the following explains why veering more chain achieves this?
- A. More chain increases the total weight of the ground tackle, which drives the flukes deeper
- ✓ The catenary of the heavy chain keeps the shank pulling parallel to the bottom so the flukes stay buriedCorrect
- C. A longer chain allows the swivel to rotate freely, reducing twisting forces on the shank
- D. Additional chain increases friction on the bottom, supplementing the flukes' holding power
Why B is correct
NAVEDTRA 14343 §4-2 explains that the catenary — the sag of the heavy chain — keeps the shank pulling parallel to the bottom, which keeps the flukes buried. A short scope lifts the shank and can break the anchor out.
Cited:NAVEDTRA 14343 §4-2