Fluke, in the context of anchor structure, refers to the large, flat segment of the anchor that is designed to dig into the sea bed to provide stability and prevent ship movement. It is typically triangular or wedge-shaped and is often referred to as the palm of the anchor, as its functionality and position resemble the palm of an open hand. The effectiveness of an anchor largely depends on the size and design of its flukes, since these parts create the resistance needed to hold a vessel in place.
Example
1. The sailor promptly began his inspection of the anchor, first looking at the fluke to assure it had no visible damages that could inhibit the ship's security.
2. As part of their routine maintenance, the ship's crew paid special attention to the condition of the fluke, checking for any signs of wear or strain.
3. The underwater salvage team discovered the wreck's fluke buried deep into the sea bed, indicating how the anchor served its last act of stabilizing the ship.
4. The nautical engineer was particularly keen on redesigning the fluke of the anchor, believing this area crucial for ensuring the ship's anchor holds firm under any potential weather conditions.
5. The ship's first mate instructed one of the newer seamen to scrub the rust off the fluke, emphasizing the importance of keeping the anchor in top shape.
Interesting fact
The fluke of an anchor is the part designed to dig into the bottom of the sea, river, or lake to keep a vessel in place. An interesting fact about this is that the design of the fluke is not a random shape but a carefully engineered structure, modeled after the natural designs found in plows used in agriculture. By observing how plows dig into and hold the soil, humans have been able to create anchors that effectively dig into and hold the seabed, keeping vessels securely in place. This is an excellent example of how observing nature can lead to effective human-made technology.