The longitudinal free surface correction of a floating MODU displacing 12,000 kips is 1.20 feet. What would be the new FSCL if 2,400 kips of solid variable loads are added?

Correct Answer: Option C — 1.00 foot

Longitudinal free surface correction varies inversely with displacement. Initial FSCL of 1.20 ft at 12,000 kips gives an FSM of 14,400 ft-kips. Adding 2,400 kips of solid load increases displacement to 14,400 kips without adding free surface. Dividing the unchanged FSM by 14,400 kips yields 1.00 foot.