Which of the following describes why topside icing, which is usually off-center, decreases vessel stability?

Correct Answer: Option B — it increases the height of the center of gravity

Topside icing adds weight significantly above the vessel's initial center of gravity. According to stability fundamentals, adding high weights directly increases the vertical center of gravity (KG), thereby reducing GM and diminishing the righting energy necessary to return the vessel to an upright position.