For what purpose are Bull ropes specifically used?

Bull ropes are specifically designed to assist riders during bull riding events in rodeos. Their primary purpose is to provide a secure grip for the rider as they attempt to stay mounted on the bull for a designated period. The bull rope wraps around the bull's torso, and a portion of it can be held by the rider's hand. This setup allows the rider to maintain stability and control while the bull is trying to buck them off.

The other options do not align with the functional characteristics of bull ropes. Splicing relates to connecting or intertwining ropes, lifting and lowering heavy equipment is associated with cranes and hoisting systems, creating hand lines pertains to safety lines or guiding elements in construction or rescue work, and throwing relates to the use of ropes in practices like roping events but not specifically for bull riding. Therefore, the primary use of bull ropes is effectively to aid the bull rider in their performance, rather than fulfilling any of the other mentioned functions.