A Crude Oil Wash (COW) system is considered as __________.

Correct Answer: Option A — a Butterworth system using crude oil instead of water as the cleaning medium

Crude Oil Washing (COW) utilizes the vessel's own cargo as a cleaning solvent. By using high-pressure crude oil jets instead of water, the system effectively dissolves waxy residues and sludge. This process, regulated under MARPOL and 46 CFR, reduces pollution and improves cargo discharge efficiency by minimizing retained oil.