anchor
Definition
An anchor is a heavy object that is used to keep a boat or ship from drifting away. Anchors are usually made of metal and have a long chain or rope attached to them. When the anchor is dropped into the water, it digs into the bottom and prevents the boat or ship from moving.
There are many different types of anchors, but the most common type is the fluke anchor. Fluke anchors have two or three flukes, which are flat, blade-like projections that dig into the bottom.
Anchors are an essential part of boating and shipping. They allow boats and ships to stay in one place, even in strong currents or winds. Anchors have been used for centuries, and they are still an important part of maritime safety.
How can the word be used?
The anchor held the ship in place during the storm.
Different forms of the word
Noun: anchor.
Verb: anchor, anchors, anchored, anchoring.
Adjective: anchoring.
Adverb: anchoringly.
Etymology
The word "anchor" comes from the Latin word ancēre, which means "to fasten." The word ancēre is made up of the prefix an, which means "on" or "to," and the verb cēre, which means "to fasten.".
Question
How many different types of anchor are there?
AQA Science Exam Question and Answer
Question:
Explain the role of an anchor in preventing the movement of a boat and the underlying physics principle behind its effectiveness.
Answer:
- An anchor is a device used to prevent the movement of a boat by providing a counterforce against the forces acting on the boat, such as wind and water currents. When the anchor is dropped to the seabed or lakebed, it utilises the principle of friction and the weight of the anchor itself to create a resisting force. This force opposes the forces trying to move the boat and keeps it in place, ensuring stability and preventing drifting.