🔍 Key Concepts

• Metacentric height (GM) and what it tells you about stability • How free surface effect from floodwater can change GM • Difference between a void space flooding and a cargo/ballast tank flooding

💭 Think About

• Think about what happens if the flooded space is completely full, with no surface for the water to move around—how does that affect stability? • Now think about a partially filled compartment where water can slosh side to side—what does that do to the ship’s ability to right itself? • Could the location of the flooded compartment (low vs high, centerline vs off-center) change the effect on GM?

✅ Before You Answer

• Is the flooded space completely pressed up (no free surface) or partially filled (has free surface)? • Consider whether the added water weight is below or above the original center of gravity (G). • Remember that free surface effect always reduces GM, but added weight in certain locations can increase or decrease GM overall.