Question 2509 Deck General

The correct answer is D) All of the above. When a tug reduces speed to shorten the tow: 1) The tow may continue its momentum and overtake the tug, as the tow's inertia keeps it moving forward even as the tug slows down. 2) The towing hawser may drag the bottom and put the tug in irons, meaning the tug could lose maneuverability if the hawser catches on the seafloor or other obstructions. 3) The length of the tow gets shorter as the strain on the towing hawser is reduced, since the tug is no longer pulling the tow at full speed. All of these factors can occur when a tug reduces speed to shorten the tow, which is why D) All of the above is the correct answer.