Question 3510 Deck General

The correct answer is C) increase the catenary. In a combination chain and wire rope mooring system, the chain is deployed at the anchor end of the line to increase the catenary, or the curved shape, of the mooring line. This helps to absorb the dynamic forces and motions acting on the moored vessel, reducing strain on the mooring system. The other options are incorrect because: A) increasing fatigue life is not the primary purpose of using chain at the anchor end, B) preventing the anchor from fouling is not directly related to the chain placement, and D) the chain is used to increase the catenary, not eliminate the need for mooring buoys.