knots hitches bends tackles Practice Questions

1. Which knot is most suitable for joining two lines of equal diameter?

• A.Square knot✓
• B.Sheet bend
• C.Bowline
• D.Clove hitch

Why: The square knot (reef knot) is designed for joining two lines of equal size and is commonly used to tie off reefing points and bundling. It should not be used for critical load-bearing applications or lines of unequal diameter.

2. Which bend is preferred for joining two large hawsers or anchor cables because it remains flat and does not jam?

• A.Sheet bend
• B.Fisherman's bend
• C.Carrick bend✓
• D.Becket bend

Why: The carrick bend lies flat and can pass through a hawsepipe or over a windlass without jamming; it is the preferred bend for heavy hawsers because it does not deform the rope and is relatively easy to untie after loading.

3. What is the theoretical mechanical advantage of a two-fold purchase (two double blocks)?

• A.2
• B.3
• C.4✓
• D.5

Why: A two-fold purchase uses two double blocks; with the load block supported by four parts of the line, the theoretical mechanical advantage is 4, making it useful for heavier lifts in cargo and deck work.

4. A becket is defined as:

• A.The eye or loop at the end of a block used to attach a line or hook✓
• B.A type of wooden fairlead on older vessels
• C.The lower sheave in a multi-sheave block
• D.A lashing used to secure a spar to the mast

Why: A becket is the eye, loop, or hook fitting on a block to which the standing end of the tackle fall is made fast or to which a hook or shackle is attached; it is integral to the block assembly and determines how the tackle is rigged.

5. A whipping on the end of a fiber line is used to:

• A.Mark the bitter end for identification
• B.Prevent the strands from unlaying and fraying✓
• C.Increase the tensile strength of the line
• D.Provide a grip surface for the helmsman

Why: Whipping is a series of tight turns of small twine (whipping twine or sail twine) applied over the end of a rope to bind the strands together and prevent the line from unlaying, unraveling, or fraying at the end.