What is the angle of loll?

The angle of loll refers specifically to the condition where a vessel remains inclined at an angle due to insufficient righting arm and stability. This phenomenon occurs primarily when a vessel has lost its initial stability or is in a state where the center of gravity has risen above its metacenter, typically because of the distribution of weight (such as water accumulating in the hold or cargo shifting).

In this scenario, despite being tilted, the vessel will not return to an upright position due to the ineffective leverage provided by the righting arm. This angle indicates a precarious state that threatens the vessel’s safety; if the angle of loll is exceeded, the vessel may capsize, but it is not necessarily the point of capsizing itself. Understanding this concept is crucial for maintaining vessel safety and for making decisions regarding cargo management and stability in various conditions.

The other options refer to different stability concepts such as the complete capsizing of a vessel, the maximum safe heel before stability is compromised, and maximum stability conditions, but they do not accurately capture the specific phenomenon defined as the angle of loll.