Final answer:
Flags and pennants are flown to signify nationality, mourning, or to communicate specific messages, with national flags like the U.S. flag having customary protocols for hoisting, including flying from sunrise to sunset or continuously if illuminated.
Step-by-step explanation:
When flags and pennants are hoisted, they are flown from flagpoles or designated fixtures to signify nationality, affiliations, or to convey specific messages. The manner of flying a flag is often governed by national customs, protocols, and rules. For instance, a national flag, like the United States flag, is typically flown from sunrise to sunset on buildings and stationary flagstaffs in the open, but can be flown at night if it is illuminated. When flown at half-staff, it signifies a period of mourning. In contrast, pennants, often used in maritime contexts, are elongated flags that serve various communication functions. They may denote a ship's presence, signal specific messages, or represent a club or affiliation. Flags and pennants should be flown in a manner that is respectful, reflects their importance, and is consistent with the traditions that surround their use.