Deflection in an inclining experiment is measured on which component?

In an inclining experiment, deflection is measured primarily on the batten. A batten is a thin, long strip of material that is used for measurement and assessment during stability tests. Its placement allows for accurate readings of the angle of heel of the vessel as weight is shifted or as the vessel is tilted.

Measuring deflection on the batten helps to determine the metacentric height and other stability parameters critical for the safe operation of the vessel. The batten is specifically chosen for this purpose due to its visibility and ability to provide precise readings, which are essential for calculating how a vessel will behave under different loading conditions.

While the keel, mast, and hull are important components of a vessel, they do not serve the purpose of measuring deflection during such experiments. The keel is critical for providing stability and structural integrity, the mast plays a role in supporting sails or equipment, and the hull encompasses the entire structure of the ship, but they do not provide the necessary measurement capability that the batten does in this context.