A fire has damaged 20 bales of cotton on a freighter loaded with general cargo. This claim would come under __________.

Correct Answer: Option C — particular average

Particular Average refers to a partial loss of a specific interest, such as a portion of cargo, caused by an accidental peril of the sea. Unlike General Average, which is a shared loss for the common good, Particular Average falls solely on the owner of the damaged goods or their insurer.