Question 64 Deck General

The correct answer is D) Resistance to lateral movement. A deep keel on a sailing vessel increases the resistance to lateral movement, which is essential for sailing effectively. The deep keel acts as a stabilizing force, preventing the vessel from drifting sideways in the water and helping it maintain a straight course. This increased resistance to lateral movement allows the vessel to better harness the wind and sail more efficiently. The other options are incorrect because a deep keel does not directly affect mast height, the height of the center of gravity, or the length-depth ratio of the vessel. These factors may be influenced by other design elements, but the primary function of a deep keel is to provide resistance to lateral movement, which is the correct answer.