Question 1692 Deck General

The correct answer is B) the line will shrink in length. When natural fiber ropes, such as manila or sisal, get wet, the fibers absorb moisture and swell, causing the overall length of the rope to decrease. This is due to the physical properties of the natural fibers that make up the rope. As the fibers swell, they become more tightly packed together, resulting in a shorter overall length of the rope. The other options are incorrect because: A) the rope may become more difficult to handle when wet, as the increased friction can make it stiffer and less pliable; C) the overall strength of the rope may decrease when wet, as the fibers can become weaker; and D) the rope may actually become less elastic when wet, as the swollen fibers restrict the rope's ability to stretch.