Question

When paddling a canoe upstream, why is it wisest to travel near the shore, and downstream, why may it be best to stay near the middle?

a) Currents are weaker near the shore upstream.
b) Currents are stronger near the middle downstream.
c) Eddies near the shore provide upstream lift.
d) Eddies in the middle provide downstream lift.

Answer 1

Paddle near the shore when going upstream due to weaker currents, and in the middle of the river downstream to take advantage of stronger currents.

Step-by-step explanation:

When paddling a canoe upstream, it is advised to stay near the shore because water currents are weaker due to friction and resistance from the shoreline and obstacles. This causes less force to be exerted against the canoe, making it easier to paddle and navigate upstream.

Conversely, when canoeing downstream, the middle of the river is preferred since the water currents are stronger there, providing a natural boost to the canoe's velocity. This assists with traveling downstream, making the journey less labor-intensive.

Paddle near the shore when going upstream due to weaker currents, and in the middle of the river downstream to take advantage of stronger currents.