What should the operator of powerboat a do if powerboat b begins to cross on the starboard (right side?

adding a(n) to an electric circuit would increase the magnetic field around a wire;

b. solenoid

a solenoid is a type of electromagnet whose purpose is to generate a controlled magnetic field.

if the purpose of the solenoid is instead to impede changes in the electric current, a solenoid can be more specifically classified as an inductor rather than an electromagnet.