An inert gas system on a tanker should be used to __________.

Correct Answer: Option C — dilute tank atmospheres to keep gas concentrations below the lower explosive limit

Inert gas systems prevent explosions by diluting the oxygen concentration within the cargo tank atmosphere to below 8% (typically 5% or less). This ensures that even if hydrocarbon vapors are present, the mixture remains below the lower explosive limit and cannot support combustion.