The effect known as "bank cushion" acts in which of the following ways on a single- screw vessel proceeding along a narrow channel?

Correct Answer: Option B — It forces the bow away from the bank.

Bank cushion occurs when water displaced by the bow is trapped between the hull and the bank, creating a high-pressure area. This pressure acts on the bow, forcing it away from the bank. This phenomenon is a critical consideration for vessel handling in narrow channels as per standard maritime maneuvering principles.