Question 26

The Correct Answer is C ### Explanation for Option C (Correct Answer) Option C ("increase with the can buoys being odd numbered") is correct because it accurately describes two fundamental rules of the U.S. lateral buoyage system when entering from seaward: 1. **Directional Numbering (Increase):** When proceeding *from seaward* (i.e., *entering* a channel), the numbers assigned to the buoys **increase** sequentially. 2. **Can Buoys and Odd Numbers:** In the U.S. system, **can buoys** (which are colored green) always mark the port (left) side of the channel when entering from seaward. Buoys on the port side are always assigned **odd numbers** (1, 3, 5, etc.). Therefore, as you enter the channel, the numbers increase, and the can buoys (on the port side) will carry the odd numbers. *** ### Explanation of Incorrect Options **A) increase in channels going to the north or west, and decrease in channels going to the south or east** This is incorrect. The direction of increasing numbers (the "conventional direction of buoyage") is standardized as *entering* from seaward. While the General Direction of Buoyage is often described as going upstream, clockwise around the U.S., or generally North/West along the coasts, the rule for any specific channel entry remains: when *entering from seaward*, the numbers **increase**, regardless of the cardinal direction the specific channel happens to run. **B) increase with the can buoys being even numbered** This is incorrect. While the numbers do **increase** when entering from seaward, can buoys are always green and mark the port side, which carries **odd numbers** (1, 3, 5...). Red buoys are usually conical (NUN) and mark the starboard side, carrying even numbers (2, 4, 6...). **D) decrease with the can buoys being even numbered** This is incorrect on both counts. When entering from seaward, the numbers **increase**, and the can buoys carry **odd numbers**.