Which statement describes the scope of chain in anchoring computations?

• A. The diameter of the anchorage
• B. The count of anchor shots required
• C. The total length of chain laid out from anchor to the vessel, including water depth and extra scope
• D. The weight of the anchor

Answer: (C)

Scope refers to the total length of chain paid out from the anchor to the vessel. It captures the full rode distance, which includes the water depth to the seabed plus the extra length set out to provide security and accommodate wind, waves, and current. This total rode length determines how the anchor will pull and how much holding power is available; too little scope increases the risk of dragging, while adequate extra scope improves stability. So the best description is the total length of chain laid out from anchor to the vessel, including water depth and extra scope. The other factors—chain diameter, number of chain shots, or anchor weight—do not define scope.