What should be done to keep the ends of fiber rope from unraveling?

To prevent the ends of fiber rope from unraveling, whipping is commonly employed. This technique involves winding a separate, strong thread or twine tightly around the ends of the rope. The whipping serves a protective purpose, binding the individual strands together and preventing them from fraying or coming loose. This is especially crucial in fiber ropes, which can easily unravel due to their construction from multiple strands of natural or synthetic fibers.

Splicing would create a permanent connection between two pieces of rope rather than addressing the issue of unraveling at the ends. Sealing might refer to various methods of finishing, but it does not specifically pertain to the maintenance of rope ends. Burning the fibers can be used in some contexts to prevent fraying, yet it risks damaging the rope itself and is not as effective as whipping in securing the fibers against unraveling.