Question 1799 Deck General

The correct answer is C) Gasoline vapors are heavier than air, tend to settle in the bilges, and create an explosion hazard. This is the correct answer because gasoline vapors are indeed heavier than air and will settle in the bilges of a vessel. If these vapors are allowed to accumulate in the bilges, they can create a potentially explosive atmosphere, which is a serious safety hazard. The ventilator ducts that extend to the bilges help to prevent this by allowing the heavier-than-air gasoline vapors to be vented out of the space. The other answer choices are incorrect because they do not accurately describe the reason for the ventilator duct requirement. Option A is incorrect as oil and water mixing is not the primary concern. Option B is incorrect as the ventilation is designed to allow air flow, not prevent it. Option D is incorrect as air is not heavier than gasoline vapors.