When anchoring, good practice requires 5 to 7 fathoms of chain for each fathom of depth. In deep water you should use __________.

Correct Answer: Option A — less chain for each fathom of depth

In deep water, the weight of the anchor chain itself becomes significant. Because the chain's catenary provides substantial holding power, a lower ratio of scope to depth is required compared to shallow water. Excessive chain in deep water would be difficult to recover and unnecessary for maintaining the anchor's hold.