Question 4744 Deck General

The correct answer is B) a negative GM. GM (Metacentric Height) is a measure of a vessel's stability, and a negative GM indicates that the vessel's center of gravity is above the metacenter, making the vessel unstable and prone to listing. A semisubmersible with a negative GM will not remain upright and will assume a list to port or starboard. The other options are incorrect because: A) a large TCG (Transverse Center of Gravity) does not necessarily lead to instability, C) excessive ballast can actually increase stability, and D) insufficient deck load is not the primary factor affecting the stability of a semisubmersible.