Question 4134 Deck General

The correct answer is C) the square of the speed through the water. The effect of squat on a vessel varies proportionally to the square of the speed through the water. This is because squat is a function of the vessel's speed and depth of water, where the speed through the water is the primary factor. The square of the speed through the water, rather than the speed over the ground, is the key factor used in general calculations of the squat effect on a vessel maneuvering in restricted waters. The other options are incorrect because they do not accurately reflect the relationship between squat and the vessel's speed. The speed over the ground (options A and B) is not the relevant factor, as it does not directly affect the squat phenomenon.