What is an outrigger used for?

An outrigger is primarily used to provide additional stability by extending to contact the ground. This is crucial because cranes often operate on uneven surfaces or in situations where the load can create significant lateral forces. By extending the outriggers, the base of the crane is effectively widened, which helps distribute the weight more evenly and lowers the center of gravity, thereby reducing the risk of tipping during operation.

This added stability is vital when lifting heavy loads or reaching out over long distances. The other options, while related to crane operation, do not accurately describe the function of outriggers. For instance, they do not increase lifting capacity directly, nor are they intended for balancing during water operations or enhancing the speed of the crane. Thus, the primary role of outriggers in crane operation is to enhance stability, making the correct answer clear.