You are on a large vessel fitted with a right-handed controllable-pitch propeller set at maximum forward pitch. Which statement about reversing is TRUE?

Correct Answer: Option D — There will probably be a loss of steering control.

Rapidly reversing pitch on a controllable-pitch propeller disrupts the flow of water across the rudder. As the propeller transitions from ahead to astern, the lack of consistent water flow over the rudder blades results in a temporary loss of steering control, regardless of the vessel's remaining forward momentum.