Re: What are constraints, aesthetics and functions of a boat
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In thinking of your school paper (I had to create a similar paper for RV Camping area), I'd organize its sections (or paragraphs) into:
Main Classification of Power Boats. re:
- Typical sizes (Large cruisers, Cuddy Cabin, Bow Riders, Deck, Bass and aluminum, pontoon, barge)?
- What's the purpose of each? What is the pros/cons of each?
- Can boats in one grouping also be used in other grouping? re: Can bowrider design also be used for fishing?
Engine types:
- Inboard/Outboard, Inboard, Outboard
- 2 stroke, 4 stroke
- What's average MPG of each engine type?
- What's general maintenance and/or winterizing tasks on each engine type?
- Why do multi-engines use standard rotation and reverse rotation at same time?
- Why is too small engine a bad thing? Why is too much engine a bad thing?
Different props:
- SS (Stainless Steel), Aluminum
- 3 blade, 4 blade differences - when to use each?
- What is pitch? What is cup? What is rake?
- When converting to/from one material, what's recommended pitch change?
- When converting to/from number of blades, what's recommended pitch change?
How does hull design influence WAKE, boat's drag, boat's behavior in rough water, behavior in shallow water?
What's the comparison between Trim Tabs (on boat's stern) vs. hydrofoil fin (on motor)? Why install? Which one is better?
What's the difference of salt water vs. fresh water exposure? re: OB Motor position, trailer abuse (like rust), boat's anode device?
What's most common tips/traps and ethics at loading ramps? What's common accidents at ramps?
If docking, what's the most common rules? re: Active bulge pump with automatic switch? What's average daily docking slip fees? What's the difference of dock storage compared to lift storage?
What's comparison of trailering boat to different water-ways or continue to use same large lake system? re: Know the depths and the shallow areas to avoid? Or, see new things - which keeps life interesting? Pros / cons / risks in each.
If buying a used boat, what is the direct and indirect costs of usual "fixings" and minor upgrades?
What's common "first time fixings" and indirect things when buying a boat for the 1st time? re: See the Private Message I just sent you.
Not too sure how long your school paper needs to be. re: 3 page or 30+ pages with comparison tables, costing tables, etc. Your call.
Hopefully, above items help....