AB Anchoring and Mooring Operations

Question 1

When anchoring a vessel, the general rule for determining how much chain (scope) to pay out in calm weather is:

Accepted Answer

5 to 7 times the depth of water

Answer

A scope of 5 to 7 times the water depth is standard for calm conditions, providing adequate catenary to absorb shock loads.

Question 2

What is the purpose of the 'bitter end' of an anchor chain?

Accepted Answer

It is the end of the chain secured to the vessel's chain locker

Answer

The bitter end is the inboard end of the anchor chain that is secured to the ship's structure inside the chain locker.

Question 3

When veering anchor chain, what does the term 'veering' mean?

Accepted Answer

Letting the anchor chain run out

Answer

Veering means paying out or letting the anchor chain run out through the hawsepipe.

Question 4

A 'Mediterranean moor' is a procedure where the vessel:

Accepted Answer

Drops anchor forward and backs stern to a pier or quay

Answer

A Mediterranean moor involves anchoring with the bower anchor and backing the stern to a berth, commonly used in ports with limited space.

Question 5

Which part of an anchor provides the primary holding power by digging into the seabed?

Accepted Answer

Flukes

Answer

The flukes are the flat, blade-like parts of an anchor that penetrate and grip the seabed to hold the vessel.

(AB) Able Seaman Exam Practice Test