How does heavy weather affect vessel stability?

When considering the effects of heavy weather on vessel stability, it's essential to understand the dynamics involved during turbulent sea conditions. Heavy weather typically involves rough seas, high waves, and strong winds, all of which can significantly impact how a vessel behaves in the water.

The correct answer identifies that heavy weather can increase heeling, which is the tilting of a vessel to one side. This can happen due to strong wind forces acting on the sail or superstructure, as well as due to the vessel's movement in response to large waves. As the vessel encounters these forces, it can create a situation where the vessel leans or heels over more than usual, which poses a risk of capsizing if the angle becomes too extreme.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the relationship between heavy weather and vessel stability. For instance, the idea that heavy weather improves stability by reducing wave impact is misleading; high waves actually increase the risks to stability, not reduce them. Saying that there is no effect on vessel stability disregards the well-documented challenges that come with storm conditions. Finally, the assertion that heavy weather decreases the vessel's center of gravity is incorrect; in reality, a vessel's center of gravity is typically fixed unless weight shifts occur onboard.