Question 4192 Deck General

The correct answer is B) effect of the propeller flow on the rudders. The propeller flow, or the discharge current from the propeller, creates a thrust that can be channeled by the flanking rudders to influence the vessel's heading. The propeller flow impinging on the rudders generates a lateral force that causes the vessel to turn or change direction. This effect is known as the "flanking rudder" or "opposing rudder" effect. The other options are incorrect because they do not directly address the primary mechanism by which flanking rudders affect a vessel's heading. Option A refers to the general water flow due to the vessel's movement, which is not the specific effect of the propeller flow on the rudders. Options C and D describe other hydrodynamic phenomena, but they do not explain the key reason for the flanking rudder effect.