To find the distance the strands should be unlaid for an eye splice, multiply the diameter of the wire in inches by __________.

Correct Answer: Option C — 36

Standard seamanship practice for splicing wire rope dictates that the strands must be unlaid for a distance equal to 36 times the diameter of the wire. This length ensures sufficient tucks are made to develop the full strength of the rope through friction and mechanical locking of the strands.