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How should smaller boats like canoes orient themselves when facing strong waves?

  1. Parallel to waves

  2. At a 90-degree angle to waves

  3. At a 45-degree angle to waves

  4. In the opposite direction of waves

The correct answer is: At a 90-degree angle to waves

Smaller boats like canoes should orient themselves at a 90-degree angle to waves when facing strong waves. This is the safest way to handle the waves and avoid capsizing. Option A, parallel to waves, would result in the boat being hit head-on by the waves, making it difficult to navigate and potentially filling the boat with water. Option C, at a 45-degree angle to waves, may result in the boat being rolled by the waves. Option D, in the opposite direction of waves, would put the boat in a vulnerable position and may result in it being carried by the waves in an uncontrolled manner. Therefore, option B is the best choice to ensure the safety and stability of the small boat in rough waters.