Coast Guard Exams
Question 1160Navigation General70% to pass

A gale is characterized by a wind speed of _______________.

AI Explanation
The correct answer is C) 34 to 47 knots. According to the Beaufort Wind Scale, which is commonly used to characterize wind speeds, a gale is defined as a wind speed between 34 to 47 knots. This range falls within the criteria for a "gale" as recognized by the United States Coast Guard and other maritime authorities. The other options are incorrect because 48 to 63 knots is classified as a "storm," 64 to 83 knots is a "hurricane," and 10 to 20 knots is a "breeze," which are not the correct wind speed range for a gale.

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