From which end of the rope can a clove hitch accept tension without coming untied?

The clove hitch is a versatile knot commonly used in various scenarios, including securing items and in climbing applications. One of its key characteristics is its ability to accept tension from two different directions. When properly tied, a clove hitch maintains its structure and stability, allowing it to hold when tension is applied from either end of the rope.

This means that regardless of which side the tension is coming from, as long as the knot is secure and has sufficient friction against the surface it’s tied around, the clove hitch will remain intact. This property makes the clove hitch particularly useful in various tasks where tension may shift, such as in rescue operations or when anchoring gear.

The correct choice reflects the clove hitch's reliability under tension, contributing to its widespread use in firefighting and other emergency services where the ability to adapt to various load directions is essential.