A capstan is primarily used for what purpose?

A capstan is designed to provide vertical motion and power for mooring and anchoring operations. It functions as a vital piece of equipment on a ship, allowing crew members to wind and control heavy mooring lines or anchor chains. By utilizing a winch-like mechanism, the capstan enables the crew to efficiently handle the tension required when securing the ship to a dock or when lowering or raising the anchor. The vertical arrangement of the capstan is particularly effective for these tasks since it helps manage the heavy loads associated with ship operations, especially in challenging maritime conditions.

The other options do not accurately capture the primary function of a capstan. While it can assist in anchoring (as represented in option A), its main characteristic is its vertical motion enablement, not just as an anchor windlass. Options C and D misrepresent the capstan’s role; it does not serve as a connecting link between lines or a storage solution for mooring lines, which can lead to confusion regarding its specific applications in vessel operations.