When the height of the metacenter is greater than the height of the center of gravity, the upright equilibrium position is stable and stability is __________.

Correct Answer: Option A — positive

Positive stability exists when the metacenter (M) is positioned above the center of gravity (G). In this upright equilibrium state, any external heel creates a righting arm that returns the vessel to its initial position, fulfilling essential U.S. Coast Guard standards for safe vessel operation.