What does the term "wake" refer to in boating terms?

The term "wake" in boating refers to the waves created by a boat as it moves through the water. As a vessel travels, it displaces water, resulting in a series of waves that trail behind it. This phenomenon is significant for a number of reasons, including navigation safety and environmental impact. A boat's wake can affect other vessels, create choppy conditions, and even cause erosion along shorelines. Understanding the wake produced by a boat is essential for maintaining safe boating practices, especially in congested areas or near sensitive environments.

The other options refer to different aspects of boating. The speed of a boat relates to how fast it travels, the distance between boats in a marina pertains to docking and spacing, and the sound made by a boat's engine relates to its operational noise, none of which define the term "wake."