[Rhodes22-list] Anchoring -- Phuzzy Physics

[DCLewis1 at aol.com]

Bill,
 
There’s no way I’m an expert at anchoring, but I do know a bit about  
mechanics and physics. You’re certainly right about an anchor’s generally  sinking, 
but the chain rode issue may be about  how the anchor engages the  bottom, 
and stays engaged with the bottom -  not about sinking the  anchor.  Consider an 
anchor on the bottom with sufficient chain rode, if  there is a pull from the 
anchor line with any vertical component, the weight of  the rode can 
counteract the effect of the vertical pull and ensure  that forces on the anchor are 
horizontal (i.e. notionally  parallel with the bottom).  I believe anchors are 
really made to deal with  horizontal forces; the anchoring effect is achieved 
primarily by  flukes, plows, or other appurtenances optimally engaging the 
bottom, and  that requires horizontal forces.  Without the rode, any substantial 
pull on  the anchor line that has a vertical component may cause the anchor to 
lift  vertically, in which case it may not engage properly, or at all, with 
the  bottom.
 
Dave