Question 43 Deck General

70% to pass

With regard to aerodynamic lift, which statement is TRUE?

A Adjusting the angle of attack on a mainsail is accomplished by adjusting the outhaul or the vang, if fitted.
B When a sail is trimmed too tight, turbulence will break out on the windward side of the sail and cause a telltale there to flutter.
C If the thrust on a sail becomes excessive when close-hauled, it is likely to capsize the vessel rather than drive it.
D A properly trimmed sail should have laminar flow on the windward side and turbulent flow on the leeward side.
AI Explanation

The correct answer is C) If the thrust on a sail becomes excessive when close-hauled, it is likely to capsize the vessel rather than drive it. This is correct because excessive thrust from a sail when the vessel is sailing close-hauled can create a dangerous situation where the boat is at risk of capsizing. Sails generate lift, and if the angle of attack is too high, the sail can generate excessive thrust that can overwhelm the stability of the vessel, leading to a capsize. The other answer choices do not directly address this specific risk of excessive sail thrust causing a capsize. The other answer choices are incorrect: A) Adjusting the angle of attack on a mainsail is accomplished by adjusting the outhaul or the vang, not the outhaul alone. B) Turbulence on the windward side of the sail is not the desired outcome, as this indicates the sail is not properly trimmed. D) A properly trimmed sail should have laminar flow on both the windward and leeward sides, not turbulent flow on the leeward side.

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