In storm conditions, with the wind and waves from the port bow of the DEEP DRILLER in 600 feet water depth, the tensions in mooring line 1 and 2 are 400 kips. Completely slacking the mooring lines 5 and 6 reduces the tension in mooring lines 1 and 2 to about __________.

Correct Answer: Option B — 330 kips

Catenary geometry and anchor line elasticity dictate mooring system response. Complete slacking of leeward lines 5 and 6 decreases overall system stiffness, resulting in a predictable tension reduction on windward lines 1 and 2 to approximately 330 kips in 600 feet of water.