Question

Which of the following hull distortion(s) is/are resisted by a ship’s transverse bulkhead?

• A. Racking
• B. Torsion
• C. Longitudinal bending
• D. Horizontal bending

Hint:

Transverse bulkheads primarily resist lateral forces (racking) and contribute to the overall structural resistance against twisting (torsion), while longitudinal bending and horizontal bending are resisted by other structural elements.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understand the function of transverse bulkheads. 
Transverse bulkheads are structural elements placed perpendicular to the ship's longitudinal axis. They resist forces acting laterally on the hull and provide rigidity to minimize deformation caused by external forces. 

Step 2: Analyze racking. 
Racking refers to the deformation of the ship's hull due to lateral forces (e.g., waves or cargo shifts) that create a parallelogram-like distortion. Transverse bulkheads resist racking by maintaining lateral rigidity and preventing excessive deformation. 

Step 3: Analyze torsion. 
Torsion occurs due to twisting forces along the longitudinal axis of the ship, often caused by asymmetrical wave loading. While longitudinal structures play a significant role, transverse bulkheads assist in resisting torsion by contributing to the overall structural integrity of the ship.

Step 4: Analyze other distortions. 
Longitudinal bending (Option C): This is caused by uneven loading or wave-induced forces and is resisted primarily by the keel and longitudinal girders, not transverse bulkheads. Horizontal bending (Option D): This results from uneven lateral forces and is resisted by side structures, not transverse bulkheads. 

Conclusion: The hull distortions resisted by a ship's transverse bulkhead are racking and torsion.