For what purpose are running or intermediate anchors used?

Running or intermediate anchors are primarily used to protect climbers on steep walls or during challenging sections, such as snow or ice. These anchors are strategically placed along the climbing route to provide safety and support as the climber ascends.

The purpose of these anchors is to prevent a climber from falling a significant distance if they slip or lose their grip. By positioning these anchors at intervals on steep terrain, climbers can clip into them to decrease the potential fall distance and improve their safety as they navigate difficult sections. This is especially important in scenarios where the risk of falling is increased due to the angle of the terrain or slippery conditions.

Other choices do not encompass the primary purpose of running or intermediate anchors. For instance, securing gear on flat surfaces and holding equipment in place are more related to different anchoring methods or the use of static anchors rather than the dynamic protective role of intermediate anchors during climbing. The option mentioning anchoring pets does not align with the intended application of running anchors in climbing safety.