Which of the following ropes has the highest breaking strength?

The choice of 1/2" 6X19 IWRC Bright XXIP reflects the highest breaking strength among the options listed. This rope configuration utilizes a core construct that provides superior strength and load-bearing capabilities.

The "6X19" designation indicates a construction of 6 strands each composed of 19 wires, which offers a significant balance of flexibility and durability. The inclusion of "IWRC," or Independent Wire Rope Core, enhances the rope’s strength by adding an additional layer of support that allows for better handling of dynamic loads, which is critical in theatre rigging scenarios.

The "Bright" finish refers to the untreated surface, which, while potentially less resistant to corrosion than other finishes, does not diminish the inherent tensile strength that is a critical factor in rigging applications.

In comparison, although 1/2" 7X19 GAC also has robust characteristics, the construction method (7 strands of 19 wires each) focuses more on flexibility than maximum strength. The other option listed, the 3/8" 7X19 GAC, further reduces the diameter, resulting in a lower breaking strength due to its smaller size. The last possibility, the 1/2" 6X19 IWRC