🔍 Key Concepts

• IALA Maritime Buoyage System – Cardinal marks and their purpose • Light rhythms used for cardinal marks (e.g., quick and very quick) • Difference between fixed, flashing, and occulting lights

💭 Think About

• Ask yourself: What is the primary purpose of a cardinal mark, and how does that affect how easy it must be to see and recognize at night? • Think about which light characteristic allows mariners to quickly identify direction of safe water (N, E, S, W) in all conditions. • Compare which of the listed characteristics are commonly used on lateral marks versus cardinal marks.

✅ Before You Answer

• Verify which light rhythms are specified for cardinal marks in the IALA system. • Check the definitions of fixed, flashing, and occulting lights and which are typically used for other buoy types, not cardinals. • Confirm which option is associated with a high-frequency, easily distinguishable light pattern.