What external forces can cause a vessel to heel?

The reason why the choice pertaining to wind pressure or cargo shifts is correct in identifying external forces that can cause a vessel to heel is that both factors introduce a significant disturbance to the vessel's equilibrium.

Wind pressure acts as an external force when it strikes the side of the ship, creating a moment that causes the vessel to tilt or heel away from the direction of the wind. This is particularly relevant for vessels with a high center of gravity or large sail area, as they are more susceptible to the effects of wind.

Similarly, cargo shifts within the vessel can lead to heeling. When cargo moves due to rolling or shifting, it can change the center of gravity and the distribution of weight, creating a moment that causes the vessel to heel. This is an important consideration in stability calculations, as any movement of cargo can significantly impact how a vessel behaves in the water.

In contrast, other options represent different phenomena. Centrifugal force from turning does contribute to the vessel's inclination but is more associated with the vessel's own handling characteristics rather than an external force. Wave height impacts the stability of a vessel but is not solely defined as a force that causes heeling without considering the interaction between the wave and the vessel's design and load. Static weight within