Question 26 Deck General

The correct answer is A) When it first takes the shape of an airfoil. The maximum drive is achieved when the Marconi sail first takes the shape of an airfoil as you sheet it in. This is because the airfoil shape creates the most efficient lift and propulsion, resulting in the greatest forward thrust. As you continue to sheet in the sail, the drive will decrease as the sail becomes over-trimmed. The other options are incorrect because: B) 45 degrees from the apparent wind is not the point of maximum drive, C) right angles to the true wind would be over-trimmed, and D) a slight flap at the leech indicates the sail is not optimally trimmed for maximum drive.