Under normal driving conditions, indirect tiedowns may lose tension if:

The correct choice highlights that gaps between the articles of cargo can lead to a loss of tension in indirect tiedowns under normal driving conditions. This is crucial because when cargo is not packed tightly, the movement of the cargo during transit can cause the tiedowns to become loose. The gaps allow for more movement, which can lead to shifts that may compromise the effectiveness of the tiedowns.

In contrast, when cargo is properly secured without gaps, the tiedowns can maintain consistent tension, ensuring that the load remains stable and preventing any shifting that could occur due to acceleration, braking, or turns. Effective tie-down strategies often emphasize the importance of a snug fit between cargo items to minimize movement and maximize safety.

Other factors like the weight of the cargo, the color-coding of tiedowns, and the use of knots are relevant to securing cargo, but they do not directly address the tension loss caused by gaps between cargo items. Therefore, understanding the relationship between cargo configuration and tiedown effectiveness is key to ensuring cargo stability during transit.