Question 2012 Deck Safety

The correct answer is B) center of gravity. In the absence of external forces, the center of buoyancy of an inclined vessel is vertically aligned directly below the center of gravity. This is a fundamental principle of naval architecture and stability. The center of buoyancy represents the location of the upward buoyant force acting on the vessel, and in equilibrium, this must be aligned with the center of gravity to maintain the vessel's stability. The other options are incorrect because the geometric center of the waterplane area, the amidships station, and the center of flotation do not determine the alignment of the center of buoyancy in the absence of external forces. These are other important parameters in vessel stability, but they do not directly relate to the vertical alignment of the center of buoyancy in the given scenario.