Explain the meaning of EACH of the following terms: (a) LOA;(2) (b) displacement;(2) (c) load line;(2) (d) draught;(2) (e) breadth.(2)
(a) LOA – Length Overall (2 marks)
Meaning: The maximum length of the vessel, measured from the foremost point of the bow to the aftermost point of the stern.
Purpose/Use: Used for berthing arrangements, docking, and port charges.
(b) Displacement (2 marks)
Meaning: The total weight of water displaced by the vessel’s hull, equal to the ship’s actual weight at any loading condition (Archimedes’ principle).
Purpose/Use: Indicates the ship’s actual mass and is critical for stability and strength calculations.
(c) Load Line (2 marks)
Meaning: A mark on the ship’s side (Plimsoll line) indicating the maximum safe draught to which the vessel may be loaded under different conditions (summer, winter, tropical, freshwater, etc.).
Purpose/Use: Ensures adequate freeboard and compliance with safety regulations to prevent overloading.
(d) Draught (2 marks)
Meaning: The vertical distance from the keel’s bottom (baseline) to the waterline.
Purpose/Use: Indicates how deep the vessel is submerged and is essential for under keel clearance and port entry.
(e) Breadth (2 marks)
Meaning: The maximum width of the ship’s hull, usually measured amidships.
Purpose/Use: Important for stability calculations, cargo capacity, and determining berth clearances.
