When approaching a preferred-channel buoy,...

Question 1 of 2707066636ee928f7522a1c519173

When approaching a preferred-channel buoy, the best channel is NOT indicated by the __________.

Question 1 of 27070

When approaching a preferred-channel buoy, the best channel is NOT indicated by the __________.

🔍 Key Concepts

• Preferred-channel (junction) buoys in the U.S. Aids to Navigation System (IALA-B) • How the top color band on a preferred-channel buoy is used to show the main/“preferred” channel • Differences between color, shape, and light characteristics of buoys

💭 Think About

• Think about which feature of a preferred-channel buoy actually tells you which side is the preferred channel to follow: is it the color pattern, the shape, or the light? • Ask yourself: if this buoy were unlighted at night (or the light failed), what part of its appearance would still tell you the preferred channel? • Consider how the light on a preferred-channel buoy works: does the light itself show which side is preferred, or does it just match the buoy’s general lateral color (red or green)?

✅ Before You Answer

• Review how the uppermost color band on a preferred-channel buoy indicates whether the preferred channel is to port or starboard. • Confirm what the shape of a preferred-channel buoy represents (is it different from normal lateral buoys of the same color?). • Check whether the light color or characteristic alone can tell you which channel is preferred, or whether you must look at the buoy’s color bands.