What is the difference between a "stiff" ship and a "tender" ship in terms of stability?

A. A stiff ship has a very low or negative GM and rolls slowly with a long roll period, while a tender ship has a large GM and barely rolls at all

B. A stiff ship has a relatively large GM, resulting in a short, quick, "snappy" roll period and high righting forces (which can cause high accelerations/stresses), while a tender ship has a relatively small GM, resulting in a slow, slower roll period and a "tender", easy motion but with less reserve of positive stability

C. A stiff ship is one that is overloaded beyond its summer load line, and a tender ship is one loaded below its winter load line

D. Stiff and tender refer only to the strength of the hull plating, not to stability or roll period

A. Increased displacement generally raises the centre of gravity if weight is added high up, and free surface effects in partially-filled tanks can reduce the effective metacentric height (GM)

B. None — stability is fixed regardless of loading

C. Only the Chief Engineer needs to consider this, never the deck watchkeeper

D. Additional weight always improves stability regardless of where it is placed

A. Significant — a failed watertight closure compromises the subdivision the vessel's damage stability calculations rely on, potentially allowing progressive flooding between compartments in the event of damage

B. Negligible — watertight doors below the waterline are rarely closed anyway

C. Only relevant if the vessel carries passengers

D. This only matters when the vessel is at anchor