What characterizes ebb current?

Ebb current is characterized by the flow of water away from the land, typically occurring as the tide recedes. During this phase, water moves from the coastline back towards the sea, resulting in a decrease in water level along the shore. This natural phenomenon is primarily driven by the gravitational forces exerted by the moon and the sun, leading to the rise and fall of tides.

Understanding the concept of ebb current is crucial for navigation and seamanship, as it affects vessel maneuvering, speed, and safety. Mariners need to be aware of the state of the current, especially in coastal areas, as an ebb current can create conditions that influence the performance of a vessel.

The other options do not accurately describe the characteristics of ebb current. For instance, a current flowing towards land would be associated with flood tide instead of ebb tide. A constant current would not represent the dynamic nature of tidal currents, which fluctuate with the lunar cycle. Finally, while tidal fluctuations certainly influence currents, ebb current is specifically defined by its direction and does not remain unchanged; it varies with the changing tides.