Final answer:
Clipper ships were not twice as fast as older merchant ships. Speed advantage varied depending on the ship and conditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
No, the statement is false. Clipper ships were not twice as fast as older merchant ships. While clipper ships were known for their speed and were faster than traditional merchant ships, the speed advantage varied depending on the specific ship and conditions. For example, clipper ships were faster than older vessels in calm waters and with favorable winds, but they were not necessarily twice as fast. Additionally, speed was not the only factor considered when comparing ships, as factors like cargo capacity and cost also played a role.
Learn more about Clipper ships and their speed