Question 59 RVR04 - Master or Mate of LT 200 GRT

The Correct Answer is D **Why Option D is Correct:** The term "striking plate" in a maritime or tank gauging context refers to a metal plate, usually made of brass or bronze, fixed to the bottom or a structural member near the bottom of a cargo tank, ballast tank, or fuel tank. Its primary purpose is to provide a durable, non-sparking, and clear target for the sounding bob (or dipping weight) attached to the sounding tape or line. When taking a manual measurement (sounding) of the liquid depth, the bob strikes this plate, creating a distinct metallic sound that confirms the bob has reached the bottom. It also prevents the heavy bob from damaging the tank coating or the tank plating itself over repeated use. Therefore, it provides a landing surface for the sounding bob. **Why the Other Options are Incorrect:** * **A) It provides a surface for applying force on machinery:** This definition is too general and does not align with the specific function of a striking plate used in sounding/gauging procedures. While a "striking plate" could theoretically exist in machinery, in standard maritime terminology, this is not its purpose. * **B) It absorbs machinery vibration:** Components designed to absorb vibration are typically dampers, isolators, or flexible mounts, not the rigid metal plates used for tank sounding. * **C) It prevents valve stem over-travel:** Components that prevent over-travel in valves are usually mechanical stops or limit switches. A striking plate has no connection to the operation or prevention of over-travel in a valve stem.