Mooring of buoys for large vessels: The buoy is strengthened by connecting to multiple anchors arranged as which type of mooring?

Introduction:
Buoy moorings must resist environmental forces from waves, wind, and currents transmitted through large vessels. The anchor-leg configuration around a buoy affects holding capacity and positional stability.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Large vessels impart significant horizontal loads to the buoy.
• Multiple anchor legs can be distributed around the buoy.
• We compare 1-, 2-, 3-, and 4-leg systems conceptually.

Concept / Approach:
A three-legged arrangement (approximately 120° apart) provides near-uniform directional resistance and redundancy, improving station-keeping without excessive complexity. One- or two-leg systems are directionally weak; four-leg systems add complexity and cost, often reserved for very demanding fixed moorings rather than standard mooring buoys.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Assess directional coverage: 3 legs at ~120° offer balanced restoring force for any approach.Evaluate redundancy: Loss of one leg in a 3-leg system still leaves two legs sharing load with acceptable geometry.Compare with 2-leg or 1-leg: Susceptible to veering loads and yaw; poor omni-directional stability.Four-leg: Effective but more complex and costlier; not the common strengthening choice for buoys serving large vessels.

Verification / Alternative check:
Harbor practice and design guides frequently show three-point moorings for buoys due to balanced coverage and manageable installation.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
One-/Two-legged: Insufficient omni-directional restraint.Four-legged: Possible but not the typical strengthening scheme for standard buoy moorings.All types equally preferred: Not true; three-leg is generally preferred for balance.

Common Pitfalls:
Assuming more legs always means better; layout symmetry and operational practicality matter as much as count.

Final Answer:
Three-legged mooring.