What Is Ballast Flashcards
What is the primary function of ballast in marine vessels?
To provide stability and control the center of gravity.
True or False: Ballast can only be made from water.
False.
Fill in the blank: Ballast is used to counteract the effects of ________ forces acting on a vessel.
buoyant.
Which of the following is NOT a type of ballast? A) Water B) Rocks C) Fuel D) Sand
C) Fuel.
What is the term for the weight added to the bottom of a vessel to improve stability?
Ballast.
True or False: Ballast can affect the speed of a ship.
True.
What is ‘ballast water’?
Water taken on by a ship to provide stability, which can contain various organisms.
Fill in the blank: The process of adding or removing ballast to adjust a vessel’s weight is known as ________.
ballasting.
What are the environmental concerns associated with ballast water?
The introduction of invasive species into new ecosystems.
Which type of ballast is commonly used in modern ships?
Water ballast.
True or False: Ballast can be adjusted during a voyage to maintain optimal performance.
True.
What is the impact of improper ballast management?
It can lead to instability and increased risk of capsizing.
Fill in the blank: In rail transport, ballast refers to the ________ that supports the weight of the tracks.
gravel.
What is the difference between ‘permanent ballast’ and ‘temporary ballast’?
Permanent ballast is fixed and not removed, while temporary ballast can be added or removed as needed.
True or False: Ballast is only used in ships and boats.
False.
What role does ballast play in maintaining a vessel’s trim?
It helps to balance the weight distribution along the length of the vessel.
Which of the following is a disadvantage of using solid ballast?
It can be heavy and difficult to move.
Fill in the blank: The process of exchanging ballast water is often regulated to prevent ________ transfer.
species.
What is the significance of the ‘ballast exchange’ procedure?
It helps to reduce the risk of introducing invasive species.
True or False: Ballast is only relevant for large commercial vessels.
False.
What is a common material used for solid ballast?
Concrete or lead.
Fill in the blank: The effectiveness of ballast depends on its ________ relative to the vessel’s weight.
placement.
What does the term ‘freeboard’ refer to in relation to ballast?
The distance from the waterline to the upper deck level.
True or False: Ballast can help improve fuel efficiency in ships.
True.
