Which type of rope is characterized by wires laid in the opposite direction of the strands?

The correct answer identifies right lay rope, which is defined by having its wires twisted in a direction that is opposite to that of the strands. In the context of rope construction, the characteristic of 'right lay' specifically means that if you were to follow the direction of the strands, you would see that the wires are laid in a clockwise manner.

This construction is significant because it influences the rope's flexibility, strength, and resistance to wear. Right lay ropes are commonly used in applications where a combination of tensile strength and flexibility is required. They are also easier to handle when splicing or knotting due to their design.

The other options represent variations of rope constructions but do not align with the criteria set by the question. For instance, lang lay rope features wires that are laid in the same direction as the strands, which is directly contrary to the definition of right lay. Left lay rope, while it does involve the twisting of wires, is characterized by the opposite direction entirely. Opposite lay, while it sounds plausible, isn’t a standard term used to describe these specific rope constructions in rigging contexts. Thus, understanding the structure and purpose of right lay rope is crucial for effective rigging practices.