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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Chapter 8.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. How long does the average hunt for a sperm whale take?
(a) One to two years.
(b) Two to three years.
(c) Six months to a year.
(d) One to two months.

2. When the men are close enough to attack the whale, what is used in order to pierce its vital organs?
(a) An oar.
(b) A lance.
(c) A knife.
(d) A harpoon.

3. In what direction does the wind shift, allowing the boats to sail towards Peru?
(a) South.
(b) East.
(c) West.
(d) North.

4. Why is it difficult for the men to row in Chapter 8?
(a) They are too weak.
(b) It is too hot.
(c) They are rowing against the wind.
(d) They are not getting enough sleep.

5. What allows a sperm whale the ability to survive a head on collision with a boat?
(a) It's tail acts as a stabilizer to minimize the impact.
(b) It's speed makes it impervious to the impact.
(c) It's head is shaped like a battering ram.
(d) It's body is designed to absorb tremendous shock.

Short Answer Questions

1. What is the mood of the men on November 26?

2. Compared to the other seventy Nantucket whale ships, how is the Essex considered?

3. What type of fish surround Chase's boat in Chapter 8?

4. What does the whale do after hitting the Essex below the anchor in Chapter 5?

5. According to one naval architect, what might have helped the Essex withstand the whale's attack?

(see the answer key)

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