Question 2141 Deck Safety

The correct answer is C) stable equilibrium. When the height of the metacenter (the point where the buoyancy force acts) is greater than the height of the center of gravity, the vessel is in a state of stable equilibrium. This means that if the vessel is displaced from its upright position, the buoyancy force will create a righting moment that will return the vessel to its original, stable position. The other options are incorrect because: A) negative equilibrium is not a recognized term, B) unstable equilibrium occurs when the metacenter is below the center of gravity, and D) neutral equilibrium occurs when the metacenter and center of gravity are at the same height, resulting in no righting moment.