Question 4128 Deck General

The correct answer is C) by the bow. When a very large, ocean-going vessel, such as a bulk carrier or large tanker, moves through the water, the vessel's forward motion causes the water to be displaced, resulting in a decrease in water pressure under the vessel's bow. This drop in pressure causes the bow to squat, or sink deeper into the water, while the stern rises up slightly. This phenomenon is known as "squat" and is a common occurrence for large, deep-draft vessels. The other answer choices are incorrect because: A) large vessels do not typically squat by the stern, B) the vessel does not squat evenly fore and aft, and D) the vessel does not squat at the end nearest the bottom, but specifically at the bow.