🔍 Key Concepts

• Preferred-channel buoys characteristics in the IALA-B system (used in the U.S.) • Shape, color, and light patterns used to mark junctions or bifurcations in a channel • The difference between lateral buoys and preferred-channel (junction) buoys

💭 Think About

• Think about what makes a preferred-channel buoy different from a standard red or green lateral buoy at the edge of a channel. • Consider whether letters, shapes (like spherical), and light colors are individually allowed on this type of buoy under the U.S. Aids to Navigation System. • Ask yourself: can a single aid to navigation combine several of these features at once, or are some of them never used on this type of buoy?

✅ Before You Answer

• Verify what marking and lettering rules apply to preferred-channel buoys in the U.S. system. • Check which shapes are actually used for buoys in the lateral system and whether spherical is one of them for this purpose. • Confirm what light colors are used on preferred-channel buoys and whether white is included.