When pushing barges ahead close to a steep revetment where there is no current, what is MOST likely to occur?

Correct Answer: Option C — The head of the tow will tend to sheer away from the revetment.

According to inland piloting principles in Bowditch, water displaced by a tow moving along a steep bank accelerates through the restricted channel between the tow and the bank. The resulting low pressure causes bank suction, pulling the bow toward the revetment while the stern sheers away.