What are halyards used for on a sailboat?

Halyards are essential components of a sailboat rigging system that serve the primary function of raising and lowering the sails. They are ropes or lines that are attached to the head of a sail and run through a block at the top of the mast, allowing the sailor to elevate the sail for sailing or lower it for docking or when not in use. This function is crucial because an effective sail setup is necessary for harnessing wind power to propel the vessel. A properly rigged and adjusted halyard ensures that the sails are set at the appropriate height, which is vital for optimal sailing performance.

The other choices describe functions that are performed by different parts of the sailboat. For instance, steering the boat effectively involves using the rudder and the helm, while controlling the sails' angle to the wind is managed through the use of sheets and other rigging adjustments. The connection of the rudder to the steering wheel is handled by the steering mechanism, separate from the halyard's role in sail management.