In new construction or during significant steel plate replacements, what is the procedure of 'line heating'?

Correct Answer: Option D — Heating and cooling of steel plating to remove distortions.

Line heating is a controlled thermal process used in ship construction to correct plate distortion. By applying localized heat in specific patterns and allowing controlled cooling, the resulting contraction forces pull the steel back into its intended shape, effectively removing buckling or warping caused by welding stresses.