Question 2055 Deck Safety

The correct answer is D) Its period of roll is short. A "stiff" vessel has a small metacentric height (GM), which means it has a high center of gravity and a short roll period. This makes the vessel less stable and prone to quick, abrupt rolling motions. The short roll period is the key characteristic of a "stiff" vessel. The other options are incorrect because: A) A small GM is a characteristic of a "stiff" vessel, not a "tender" vessel. B) A high center of gravity is a characteristic of a "stiff" vessel, not the opposite. C) Pitching heavily is a characteristic of a "tender" vessel, not a "stiff" vessel.