🔍 Key Concepts

• Surface wind effects on calm water • Common names for local wind phenomena vs. visual wind indicators • How small, light patches of ripples look from a boat at low wind speeds

💭 Think About

• Which option names a small, gentle visual pattern on the water’s surface rather than a strong, hazardous, or regional wind? • From your seamanship or sailing experience, what do mariners often call the little patches of tiny ripples that first appear on glassy water when wind begins? • Do any of the other choices refer to strong, gusty, or mountain-induced winds instead of a light breeze?

✅ Before You Answer

• Identify which choice is commonly used by sailors to describe small dark patches of ripples on an otherwise smooth sea. • Eliminate any terms that are known for violent or regional winds (e.g., high mountains, polar regions, or specific coasts). • Make sure the term you pick is associated with a gentle breeze just beginning to ruffle calm water, not with storms or heavy weather.