Deck General USCG Question #5373 (Set 167)

What is the result when natural fiber rope gets wet?

Official USCG Answer & Rule Citation

Correct Answer: Option B — the line will shrink in length

Natural fiber ropes, such as manila or sisal, swell and shorten in length when wetted as the individual fibers absorb moisture and expand laterally, causing the lay to tighten and the overall line length to significantly contract.

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