Coast Guard Practice Exam 2025 – Complete Prep Guide

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What is a fathom?

A unit of speed used in water

A unit of depth for measuring water

A six-foot unit of length

A fathom is a unit of measurement specifically used to quantify water depth, equating to six feet. This term is essential in marine navigation and various marine activities because it allows for clear communication about the depth of water, which is crucial for safe navigation and anchoring. By providing precise measurements in fathoms, nautical charts and soundings help mariners understand how deep the water is at a given location, significantly impacting vessel safety and operation. The six-foot length corresponds to the traditional measurement, which is grounded in nautical history and practices. This makes fathoms particularly relevant in contexts involving ships, boats, and other watercraft.

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The term for a shipping lane

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