Question 4164 Deck General

70% to pass

Which statement is TRUE concerning the vessel's slipstream?

A It has no effect on the steering of the vessel.
B Its velocity is the same as that of the wake.
C It has no effect on the rudder when the helm is amidships.
D The propeller gives it a helical motion.
AI Explanation

The correct answer is D) The propeller gives it a helical motion. The slipstream of a vessel is the high-velocity flow of water caused by the vessel's propeller(s). This slipstream has a helical, or spiral, motion due to the rotational force imparted by the propeller. This helical slipstream can have a significant effect on the vessel's steering, particularly at low speeds, as it interacts with the rudder. The other answer choices are incorrect - the slipstream does affect steering (not A), its velocity is higher than the wake (not B), and it can affect the rudder even when the helm is amidships (not C).

Ready to test your knowledge?

Take a Deck General Practice Exam

Pass Your Coast Guard Licensing Exams!

Study offline, track your progress, and simulate real exams with the Coast Guard Exams app