Question 3908 Deck General

The correct answer is C) "squat" will cause a decrease in bottom clearance and an increase in draft. When a vessel is running in shallow water, the phenomenon known as "squat" occurs. Squat is the effect where the vessel's draft increases due to the flow of water under the vessel's hull, causing a decrease in the clearance between the vessel's bottom and the seabed. This increase in draft can lead to the vessel running aground or striking underwater obstructions, which is a significant concern when navigating in shallow waters. The other answer choices are incorrect because they do not accurately describe the effects of a vessel running in shallow water. Option A is incorrect as the wake may actually become more pronounced in shallow water. Option B is incorrect as the vessel's responsiveness to the rudder may actually decrease in shallow water due to the increased draft.