Question 2133Deck Safety70% to pass
The original equilibrium position is always unstable when _______________.
AI Explanation
The correct answer is C) metacentric height is negative.
The original equilibrium position is always unstable when the metacentric height (GM) is negative. The metacentric height is the distance between the center of gravity (G) and the metacenter (M). When GM is negative, the ship becomes inherently unstable, as any small disturbance will cause the ship to continue rolling rather than returning to its original position.
The other answer choices are incorrect because: A) a higher KM (transverse metacentric height) does not necessarily mean the equilibrium is unstable, B) free surfaces can contribute to instability but do not directly determine the stability, and D) exceeding the maximum allowable KG limits may cause instability, but a negative GM is the direct cause of an unstable equilibrium position.
Related Questions
#2131 The improper stowage of cargo has caused vessels to have a negative GM. How will a ship in this condition handle in the seaway? #2132 Your Ro Ro vessel has just completed discharging the lower decks and is commencing discharging the upper levels. What would it indicate if the vessel were to suddenly develop a list? #2134 If the metacentric height is small, a vessel will _______________.#2135 In illustration D001SA below, what represents the metacentric height? #2136 An unstable upright equilibrium position on a vessel means that the metacenter is _______________.