Question 55 ONC02 - Second Mate/Third Mate Unlimited Tonnage

The Correct Answer is C **Explanation for C (The load line mark):** The illustration D003DG shows a set of permanent markings on the hull of a ship, typically near the midship section. These markings include a ring (the Plimsoll ring), a horizontal line through the center of the ring, and a series of horizontal lines extending forward from a vertical line. This entire group of markings is collectively known as the **Load Line Mark** (or Plimsoll Mark). These marks indicate the maximum depth to which a ship may be safely loaded in various conditions (e.g., fresh water, tropical seawater, winter North Atlantic) to ensure adequate reserve buoyancy and stability as required by international conventions (like the SOLAS convention and the Load Line Convention). **Explanation of Why Other Options Are Incorrect:** * **A) The loft mark:** This term is not standard nomenclature for these markings. "Loft marks" usually refer to construction layout marks used in the shipbuilding process (e.g., in the mold loft or on individual plates) and are generally removed or painted over, not permanent regulatory markings on the exterior hull. * **B) The test mark:** This is a generic or non-standard term. While ships undergo various tests (like hydrostatic tests or inclining tests), the permanent regulatory marks defining the maximum loading levels are specifically called the Load Line Mark. * **D) The water mark:** While the Load Line markings are used to define the appropriate waterline, "The water mark" is a general descriptive term and not the official regulatory name for the entire illustrated group of lines and symbols. The official and technically correct term for the entire set of markings is the Load Line Mark.