The transverse free surface correction of a floating MODU displacing 24,000 long tons is 1.0 foot. When the MODU is deballasted by discharging 8,000 long tons of ballast, the FSMT decreases by 4,000 ft-long tons. What is the new FSCT?

Correct Answer: Option B — 1.25 feet

Free surface correction (FSCT) is calculated by dividing Free Surface Moments (FSMT) by displacement. Initial FSMT is 24,000 ft-long tons (24,000 × 1.0). Deballasting 8,000 tons reduces FSMT by 4,000, leaving 20,000 ft-long tons. Dividing by the new displacement of 16,000 long tons gives 1.25 feet.