How is displacement defined in maritime terms?

Displacement in maritime terms specifically refers to the weight of the water that is displaced by a ship's hull when it is floating freely. This concept is vital in naval architecture and marine engineering because it determines the buoyancy of the vessel. When a ship is placed in water, it pushes aside a volume of water equivalent to its own weight, which allows it to stay afloat. The displaced water volume corresponds precisely to the weight of the ship and is a critical factor in stability, load management, and overall vessel design.

Understanding displacement helps in ensuring that the vessel remains stable and safe while in operation, particularly when loaded with cargo. The other options, while related to different aspects of vessel weight and cargo management, do not accurately define the term "displacement" in the context of maritime terminology. This distinction is crucial for operations involving loading and unloading and for assessing the vessel's performance and seaworthiness.