Competence 1 (Deck)

Reviewed by Editorial Team
The ProProfs editorial team is comprised of experienced subject matter experts. They've collectively created over 10,000 quizzes and lessons, serving over 100 million users. Our team includes in-house content moderators and subject matter experts, as well as a global network of rigorously trained contributors. All adhere to our comprehensive editorial guidelines, ensuring the delivery of high-quality content.
Learn about Our Editorial Process
| By Catherine Halcomb
Catherine Halcomb
Community Contributor
Quizzes Created: 1443 | Total Attempts: 6,686,485
| Attempts: 3,827
Quiz Flashcard
SettingsSettings
Please wait...
  • 1/40 Questions

    Where can the data relating to the direction and velocity of rotary tidal currents be found?

    • Tidal Current Tables
    • Mariner's Guide
    • Tide Tables
    • Nautical Almanac
Please wait...
About This Quiz

Competence 1 (Deck) assesses knowledge in maritime navigation, focusing on tidal current data, echo sounder operations, magnetic compass adjustments, chart types, and DGPS accuracy. It's designed for learners aiming to enhance their navigational skills for maritime applications.

Navigation Quizzes & Trivia

Quiz Preview

  • 2. 

    On an echo sounder, which of these is used to draw a line on the paper to mark a specific time of an occurrence?

    • Event marker

    • Timing device

    • Unt selector switch

    • Range switch

    Correct Answer
    A. Event marker
    Explanation
    An event marker is used on an echo sounder to draw a line on the paper to mark a specific time of an occurrence. This allows the user to easily identify and analyze specific events or incidents that may have occurred during the sounder's operation. The event marker serves as a reference point for further analysis and interpretation of the echo sounder data.

    Rate this question:

  • 3. 

    Which of these may cause false echoes in a echo sounder?

    • Schools of big fish

    • Turbulence from the interaction of tidal streams with solid particles in suspension

    • Protruding rocks from the seabed

    • Bioluminescent microorganisms in the water

    Correct Answer
    A. Turbulence from the interaction of tidal streams with solid particles in suspension
    Explanation
    Turbulence from the interaction of tidal streams with solid particles in suspension may cause false echoes in an echo sounder. When solid particles are present in the water and are disturbed by tidal streams, they can create turbulence. This turbulence can interfere with the sound waves emitted by the echo sounder, causing them to bounce back and create false echoes. This can lead to inaccurate depth readings and misinterpretation of the underwater environment.

    Rate this question:

  • 4. 

    Which chart symbol indicates that the bottom is coral?

    • Sh

    • Cl

    • Co

    • R

    Correct Answer
    A. Co
    Explanation
    The correct answer is "Co." In this context, "Co" most likely stands for coral. The other options, "Sh," "Cl," and "R," do not specifically indicate coral. Therefore, "Co" is the symbol that represents coral in the chart.

    Rate this question:

  • 5. 

    Where can the data relating to the direction and velocity of rotary tidal currents be found?

    • Nautical Almanac

    • Mariner's Guide

    • Tide Tables

    • Tidal Current Tables

    Correct Answer
    A. Tidal Current Tables
    Explanation
    Tidal Current Tables would be the most appropriate source for finding data relating to the direction and velocity of rotary tidal currents. These tables provide information on the predicted times and rates of tidal currents for specific locations, including the direction and speed of the currents. The Nautical Almanac provides astronomical data, the Mariner's Guide offers general navigation information, and Tide Tables focus on tidal heights and times, making them less likely to include specific details about tidal currents.

    Rate this question:

  • 6. 

    Which of these is an echo sounder transducer type?

    • Blue-diode

    • Magnetostriction

    • Piezo-hydraulic

    • Diesel-electric

    Correct Answer
    A. Magnetostriction
    Explanation
    Magnetostriction is an echo sounder transducer type. Magnetostriction is a phenomenon in which certain materials change their shape or dimensions when subjected to a magnetic field. This property is used in echo sounder transducers to convert electrical energy into mechanical vibrations and vice versa. These transducers emit sound waves into the water and then detect the echoes reflected back from the seabed or other objects. Therefore, the correct answer is Magnetostriction.

    Rate this question:

  • 7. 

    What is a chart that covers a large area?

    • Small scale chart

    • General chart

    • Coastal chart

    • Large scale chart

    Correct Answer
    A. Small scale chart
    Explanation
    A small scale chart is a type of chart that covers a large area. It is called "small scale" because the ratio of the map distance to the actual distance on the ground is relatively small. This means that the details and features on the chart are not shown in great detail, but it provides a broad overview of a large geographic area.

    Rate this question:

  • 8. 

    Which statement about the Flinders bar on a magnetic compass is correct?

    • It corrects the semi-quadrantal error at intercardinal headings.

    • It compensates for the error caused by the vertical component of the earth's magnetic field.

    • It allows the magnetic compass to move freely in the fluid.

    • It reduces the deviation into half.

    Correct Answer
    A. It compensates for the error caused by the vertical component of the earth's magnetic field.
    Explanation
    The Flinders bar on a magnetic compass compensates for the error caused by the vertical component of the earth's magnetic field. This error, known as dip error, occurs when the compass needle is tilted due to the vertical component of the earth's magnetic field. The Flinders bar is designed to counteract this tilt and ensure that the compass needle remains level, allowing for accurate readings.

    Rate this question:

  • 9. 

    What is a chart that covers a large area?

    • Large scale chart

    • General chart

    • Coastal chart

    • Small scale chart

    Correct Answer
    A. Small scale chart
    Explanation
    A small scale chart is a chart that covers a large area. This is because the term "scale" in cartography refers to the ratio of the map's size to the actual size of the area being represented. A small scale chart has a smaller ratio, meaning that the map covers a larger area. In contrast, a large scale chart would have a larger ratio, meaning the map covers a smaller area in greater detail. Therefore, a small scale chart is the correct answer for a chart that covers a large area.

    Rate this question:

  • 10. 

    Which statement about the Flinders bar on a magnetic compass is correct?

    • It allows the magnetic compass to move freely in the fluid.

    • It compensates for the error caused by the vertical component of the earth's magnetic field.

    • It reduces the deviation into half.

    • It corrects the semi-quadrantal error at intercardinal headings.

    Correct Answer
    A. It compensates for the error caused by the vertical component of the earth's magnetic field.
    Explanation
    The Flinders bar on a magnetic compass compensates for the error caused by the vertical component of the earth's magnetic field. This error, known as dip error, occurs when the compass needle is inclined due to the vertical magnetic field. The Flinders bar is a small magnetic bar placed horizontally across the compass bowl, which helps counteract the effect of the vertical component and allows the compass to remain level and accurate. It does not necessarily reduce the deviation or correct the semi-quadrantal error at intercardinal headings.

    Rate this question:

  • 11. 

    What is the position obtained by applying only your vessel's course and speed to a known position?

    • Dead-reckoning

    • Probable position

    • Applied position

    • Fix

    Correct Answer
    A. Dead-reckoning
    Explanation
    Dead-reckoning refers to the position obtained by using only the course and speed of the vessel from a known starting point. It involves estimating the current position based on the previous known position, the course steered, and the distance traveled. This method does not consider external factors such as wind or currents, so the position obtained is a calculated estimate rather than an exact location.

    Rate this question:

  • 12. 

    What is the speed of sound in the water?

    • 1.5 kilometers per second

    • 1.3 kilometers per second

    • 0.8 kilometer per second

    • 1.1 kilometers per second

    Correct Answer
    A. 1.5 kilometers per second
    Explanation
    The speed of sound in water is 1.5 kilometers per second. Sound travels faster in water compared to air because water molecules are closer together, allowing sound waves to propagate more quickly.

    Rate this question:

  • 13. 

    What is the nature of the beam transmitted by echo sounder?

    • Directional

    • Parabolic

    • Hyperbolic

    • Linear

    Correct Answer
    A. Directional
    Explanation
    The nature of the beam transmitted by an echo sounder is directional. This means that the beam is focused in a specific direction, allowing the echo sounder to accurately measure the depth of the water below the boat or ship. A directional beam helps in obtaining precise and reliable depth readings, as it avoids scattering of sound waves in different directions and provides a concentrated signal for accurate measurement.

    Rate this question:

  • 14. 

    The shortest distance between any two points on earth defines a ___________.

    • Great circle

    • Mercator

    • Rhumb line

    • Small circle

    Correct Answer
    A. Great circle
    Explanation
    A great circle is the shortest distance between any two points on Earth. It is a circle that divides the Earth into two equal halves and its center coincides with the center of the Earth. The great circle is formed by the intersection of the Earth's surface with a plane that passes through the center of the Earth and the two points. This concept is important in navigation and aviation as it helps determine the most efficient routes for travel.

    Rate this question:

  • 15. 

    What is the nature of the beam transmitted by echo sounder?

    • Parabolic

    • Directional

    • Hyperbolic

    • Linear

    Correct Answer
    A. Directional
    Explanation
    The nature of the beam transmitted by an echo sounder is directional. This means that the beam is focused in a specific direction and travels in a straight line. The echo sounder emits a narrow beam of sound waves into the water, and when these waves encounter an object, they bounce back and are detected by the device. The directional nature of the beam allows the echo sounder to accurately determine the depth and location of underwater objects or the ocean floor.

    Rate this question:

  • 16. 

    A barometric pressure reading of 29.92 inches of mercury is equivalent to __________.

    • 1010.35 millibars

    • 1012.35 millibars

    • 1013.25 millibars

    • 1015.25 millibars

    Correct Answer
    A. 1013.25 millibars
    Explanation
    The given question asks for the equivalent millibar value for a barometric pressure reading of 29.92 inches of mercury. The correct answer is 1013.25 millibars. This is because 1 inch of mercury is equivalent to 33.86 millibars, so by multiplying 29.92 by 33.86, we get the corresponding millibar value of 1013.25.

    Rate this question:

  • 17. 

    What is a phenomenon in which the axis of on object wobbles when torque is applied?

    • Torque-induced precession

    • Equinoctial eccentricity

    • Gyroscopic inertia

    • Wobble parallax

    Correct Answer
    A. Torque-induced precession
    Explanation
    Torque-induced precession is a phenomenon in which the axis of an object wobbles when torque is applied. This means that when a force is applied to an object, causing it to rotate, the axis of rotation does not remain fixed but instead wobbles or precesses. This can be observed in various objects such as spinning tops or gyroscopes. The torque applied to the object causes a change in its angular momentum, leading to the wobbling motion known as precession.

    Rate this question:

  • 18. 

    Polaris is always within how many degrees of the north pole?

    • 1 degree

    • 0.2 degree

    • 0.5 degree

    • 0.1 degree

    Correct Answer
    A. 1 degree
    Explanation
    Polaris, also known as the North Star, is always within 1 degree of the north pole. This means that no matter where you are in the northern hemisphere, Polaris will always be within 1 degree of the true north. This makes Polaris a useful navigational tool for determining direction and finding the north.

    Rate this question:

  • 19. 

    The mean distance between the earth and the sun is:

    • 1 astronomical unit (AU)

    • 1 celestial unit

    • 1 parsec

    • 4.3 light years

    Correct Answer
    A. 1 astronomical unit (AU)
    Explanation
    The mean distance between the earth and the sun is commonly measured in astronomical units (AU). An AU is defined as the average distance from the earth to the sun, which is approximately 93 million miles or 150 million kilometers. This unit is widely used in astronomy and provides a convenient scale for measuring distances within our solar system. Celestial units and parsecs are not commonly used to measure the distance between the earth and the sun, and 4.3 light years is a much larger distance that is typically used to measure distances between stars.

    Rate this question:

  • 20. 

    If your vessel is dragging her anchor in a strong wind, you should:

    • Increase the scope of anchor cable

    • Shorten the scope of anchor cable

    • Put over a stern anchor

    • Dropped another anchor

    Correct Answer
    A. Increase the scope of anchor cable
    Explanation
    When a vessel is dragging her anchor in a strong wind, increasing the scope of anchor cable is the correct action to take. Increasing the scope means letting out more anchor cable, which allows the anchor to have a larger radius and better holding power. This helps to prevent the vessel from dragging further and provides more resistance against the wind and current.

    Rate this question:

  • 21. 

    What  is the frequency of the low frequency pulse of the echo sounder?

    • 24 kHz

    • 18 kHz

    • 27.5 kHz

    • 33.3 kHz

    Correct Answer
    A. 24 kHz
    Explanation
    The frequency of the low frequency pulse of the echo sounder is 24 kHz.

    Rate this question:

  • 22. 

    The standard sea level pressure of the atmosphere is:

    • 1013.25 millibars of mercury

    • 1012.45 millibars of mercury

    • 1013.52 millibars of mercury

    • 1012.35 millibars of mercury

    Correct Answer
    A. 1013.25 millibars of mercury
    Explanation
    The standard sea level pressure of the atmosphere is 1013.25 millibars of mercury. This value is widely accepted as the average atmospheric pressure at sea level under normal conditions. It is used as a reference point in meteorology and other scientific measurements.

    Rate this question:

  • 23. 

    From those listed, which would be the preferred method of position fixing for greatest accuracy and certainty of position?

    • Taking a radar range and radar bearing

    • Taking several radar bearings

    • Taking several radar ranges

    • Taking a radar range and visual bearing

    Correct Answer
    A. Taking a radar range and visual bearing
    Explanation
    Taking a radar range and visual bearing would be the preferred method of position fixing for greatest accuracy and certainty of position. This is because using both radar range and visual bearing provides two independent sources of information to determine the position. Radar range provides the distance from a known point, while visual bearing provides the direction from the observer to a visible landmark. By combining these two measurements, it is possible to triangulate the exact position with greater accuracy and certainty compared to using only radar range or radar bearing.

    Rate this question:

  • 24. 

    The standard time meridian for zone description -1 is:

    • 15deg. E

    • 7 1/2deg. E

    • 0deg.

    • 7 1/2deg. W

    Correct Answer
    A. 15deg. E
    Explanation
    The standard time meridian for zone description -1 is 15deg. E. This means that the time in this zone is 1 hour ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+1). The meridian represents the imaginary line that runs from the North Pole to the South Pole and passes through the given longitude. In this case, the meridian is located at 15 degrees east of the Prime Meridian, which is the reference point for measuring longitude. Therefore, the correct answer is 15deg. E.

    Rate this question:

  • 25. 

    When navigating using DGPS, you may expect your position to be accurate to within a radius of ________ meters.

    • 100 m

    • 50 m

    • 20 m

    • 10 m

    Correct Answer
    A. 10 m
    Explanation
    When navigating using DGPS (Differential Global Positioning System), the system uses a network of reference stations to correct the GPS signals, resulting in improved accuracy. The given answer of 10 meters indicates that when using DGPS, one can expect their position to be accurate within a radius of 10 meters. This means that the actual position may vary by up to 10 meters in any direction from the displayed position.

    Rate this question:

  • 26. 

    When the water salinity increases, what happens to the speed of sound?

    • It remains the same.

    • It increases.

    • It decreases.

    • It fluctuates.

    Correct Answer
    A. It increases.
    Explanation
    When the water salinity increases, the speed of sound also increases. This is because saltwater is denser than freshwater, and sound waves travel faster in denser mediums. The increase in salinity leads to an increase in the density of the water, causing the speed of sound to increase.

    Rate this question:

  • 27. 

    A vessel is following a range to keep herself if within a narrow channel. The chart indicates the range to be 243deg. The vessel is on range, when she is steering a course of:

    • 234deg. T

    • 063deg. T

    • 270deg. T

    • 243deg. T

    Correct Answer
    A. 243deg. T
    Explanation
    The vessel is on range when she is steering a course of 243deg. T because the chart indicates that the range is 243deg. T. This means that the vessel needs to steer a course of 243 degrees True in order to stay within the narrow channel and follow the range correctly.

    Rate this question:

  • 28. 

    In the IALA Buoyage System, what is the color of an East Cardinal Mark?

    • Black band with above and below yellow band

    • Black band above and below yellow band

    • Black band below yellow band

    • Black band above yellow band

    Correct Answer
    A. Black band above and below yellow band
    Explanation
    An East Cardinal Mark in the IALA Buoyage System is characterized by a black band above and below a yellow band. This marking is used to indicate that the safest navigable water lies to the east of the buoy. The black color provides contrast and visibility, while the yellow color signifies caution and serves as a warning to mariners. Therefore, the correct answer is "Black band above and below yellow band."

    Rate this question:

  • 29. 

    Apparent altitude is sextant altitude corrected for _____________.

    • Difference is assumed latitude and actual latitude

    • Inaccuracies in the reading and reference level

    • Double-second difference

    • Chronometer error and dip

    Correct Answer
    A. Inaccuracies in the reading and reference level
    Explanation
    The apparent altitude is the sextant altitude corrected for inaccuracies in the reading and reference level. This means that when using a sextant to measure the altitude of a celestial body, there may be errors in the reading due to factors such as parallax or imperfect calibration of the instrument. The reference level, which is used as a baseline for the measurement, may also have inaccuracies. Therefore, to obtain the true altitude, these inaccuracies need to be corrected.

    Rate this question:

  • 30. 

    The standard atmospheric pressure in millimeters of mercury is:

    • 960

    • 760

    • 23.25

    • 29.92

    Correct Answer
    A. 760
    Explanation
    The standard atmospheric pressure is a measurement of the pressure exerted by the Earth's atmosphere at sea level. It is commonly expressed in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) or in units of pressure such as pounds per square inch (psi). The correct answer is 760 mmHg, which is the most commonly used value for standard atmospheric pressure.

    Rate this question:

  • 31. 

    A general chart could have a scale of:

    • 1. 50,000

    • Not more than 1. 25,000

    • 1. 200,000

    • 1. 1,000,000

    Correct Answer
    A. 1. 200,000
    Explanation
    A general chart typically has a scale that represents the range of values being depicted. In this case, the correct answer is 1. 200,000. This means that the chart's scale can go up to a maximum value of 200,000. The other options provided (50,000, 25,000, and 1,000,000) either represent lower or higher values that would exceed the scale of a general chart.

    Rate this question:

  • 32. 

    Due to the revolution of the earth around the sun, a sidereal day is shorter than a solar day by about:

    • 3 mins and 26 secs

    • 3 mins and 36 secs

    • 3 mins and 06 secs

    • 3 mins and 56 secs

    Correct Answer
    A. 3 mins and 56 secs
    Explanation
    The correct answer is 3 mins and 56 secs. This is because the Earth not only rotates on its axis but also revolves around the Sun. This revolution causes a slight discrepancy between the time it takes for the Earth to complete one rotation (sidereal day) and the time it takes for the Sun to appear at the same position in the sky (solar day). The Earth needs to rotate a little further to catch up with the Sun's apparent motion, resulting in a longer solar day compared to a sidereal day. This difference amounts to approximately 3 mins and 56 secs.

    Rate this question:

  • 33. 

    Isogonic lines are lines on a chart indicating:

    • Points of Zero variation

    • Point of equal variation

    • Magnitic dip

    • The Magnetic Latitude

    Correct Answer
    A. Point of equal variation
    Explanation
    Isogonic lines are lines on a chart that represent points of equal variation. Variation refers to the difference between true north and magnetic north, which can vary depending on the location on the Earth's surface. Isogonic lines help navigators determine the magnetic declination at different locations, allowing them to accurately adjust their compasses for navigation purposes.

    Rate this question:

  • 34. 

    The interval between the sun's upper limb being in the horizon and its center being 12 degrees below is called:

    • Astronomical twilight

    • Civil twilight

    • Nautical twilight

    • Observational twilight

    Correct Answer
    A. Nautical twilight
    Explanation
    Nautical twilight is the correct answer because it refers to the interval between the sun's upper limb being in the horizon and its center being 12 degrees below the horizon. During this time, there is still enough light for maritime navigation at sea. This period is characterized by a dimmer sky and the visibility of certain navigational stars. It is distinct from civil twilight and astronomical twilight, which have different degrees of darkness and visibility.

    Rate this question:

  • 35. 

    What is an error in a gyrocompass caused by rapid changes in course, speed and latitude causing deviation before the gyro can adjust itself?

    • Error of collimation

    • Rapid error

    • Parallax error

    • Stream error

    Correct Answer
    A. Stream error
    Explanation
    Stream error refers to an error in a gyrocompass caused by rapid changes in course, speed, and latitude. These rapid changes create a deviation before the gyro can adjust itself, leading to inaccuracies in the compass reading. This error is known as a stream error.

    Rate this question:

  • 36. 

    Your vessel's heading is 330â—‹pgc abd 345â—‹psc with a 2â—‹E gyro error. If there is a variation of 6â—‹W, what is the deviation on this heading?

    • 0â—‹

    • 3â—‹W

    • 4â—‹E

    • 7â—‹W

    Correct Answer
    A. 7â—‹W
    Explanation
    The vessel's heading is given as 330°pgc and 345°psc, with a 2°E gyro error. The gyro error means that the gyrocompass is reading 2° more than the true heading. The variation is given as 6°W, which means that the magnetic heading is 6° less than the true heading. To find the deviation, we need to subtract the magnetic heading from the gyrocompass reading. Since the gyrocompass reading is already 2° more than the true heading, and the magnetic heading is 6° less than the true heading, the deviation would be the sum of these two values, which is 2°+6°=8°W. However, since the options only include 7°W, the correct answer is 7°W.

    Rate this question:

  • 37. 

    Your  vessel's heading is 330â—‹pgc and 345â—‹psc with a 2â—‹E gyro error. If there is a variation of 10â—‹W, what is the deviation on this heading?

    • 7â—‹W

    • 0â—‹

    • 4â—‹E

    • 3â—‹W

    Correct Answer
    A. 3â—‹W
    Explanation
    The vessel's heading is given as 330â—‹pgc and 345â—‹psc. PGC stands for True Course and PSC stands for Compass Course. The gyro error is 2â—‹E, which means the gyrocompass is reading 2 degrees to the east of the true course. Variation is the angular difference between true north and magnetic north, and in this case, it is given as 10â—‹W, meaning magnetic north is 10 degrees west of true north. To find the deviation, we need to subtract the gyro error from the variation. Therefore, the deviation on this heading is 3â—‹W.

    Rate this question:

  • 38. 

    Your vessel's heading is 330â—‹pgc and 345â—‹psc with a 2â—‹E gyro error. If there us a variation of 13â—‹W, what is the deviation on this heading?

    • 4â—‹E

    • 0

    • 7â—‹W

    • 3â—‹W

    Correct Answer
    A. 0
    Explanation
    The vessel's heading is given as 330â—‹pgc and 345â—‹psc with a 2â—‹E gyro error. The gyro error is East, which means that the actual heading is 2â—‹ more than what is indicated by the gyro. The variation is given as 13â—‹W, which means that the magnetic heading is 13â—‹ less than the true heading. Since the gyro error is in the opposite direction of the variation, they cancel each other out. Therefore, the deviation on this heading is 0.

    Rate this question:

  • 39. 

    Which statement is TRUE concerning "night effect" and the reception of radio signals?

    • "Night effect" is most prevalent late at night

    • During "night effect", polarization is at a minimum

    • "Night effect" is caused by all of the polarized ground waves being vertical

    • "Night effect" is caused by rapid changes in the ionosphere

    Correct Answer
    A. "Night effect" is caused by rapid changes in the ionosphere
    Explanation
    The "night effect" refers to the phenomenon where radio signals are affected during nighttime due to changes in the ionosphere. The ionosphere is a layer of the Earth's atmosphere that contains charged particles, and it plays a crucial role in reflecting radio waves back to the Earth's surface. During nighttime, the ionosphere undergoes rapid changes, such as the recombination of ions and the disappearance of certain layers, which can cause fluctuations in the reception of radio signals. Therefore, the correct answer is that the "night effect" is caused by rapid changes in the ionosphere.

    Rate this question:

  • 40. 

    The apparent wind can be zero when the true wind is from:

    • Astern and equal to the ship's speed

    • Ahead and equal to the ship's speed

    • Ahead and equal to twice the ship's speed

    • Astern and equal to twice the ship's speed

    Correct Answer
    A. Astern and equal to the ship's speed
    Explanation
    When the apparent wind is zero, it means that there is no relative wind felt by an observer on a moving object. In this case, the apparent wind can be zero when the true wind is astern (coming from behind) and equal to the ship's speed. This means that the ship is moving at the same speed as the wind, causing the apparent wind to be zero.

    Rate this question:

Quiz Review Timeline (Updated): Mar 21, 2023 +

Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.

  • Current Version
  • Mar 21, 2023
    Quiz Edited by
    ProProfs Editorial Team
  • Jun 16, 2015
    Quiz Created by
    Catherine Halcomb
Back to Top Back to top
Advertisement
×

Wait!
Here's an interesting quiz for you.

We have other quizzes matching your interest.