What is the angle of loll in vessel stability?

The angle of loll refers to the condition when a vessel rests at an angle due to an unstable equilibrium. This occurs when the center of gravity of the vessel is above its center of buoyancy, leading to a situation where the vessel cannot return to an upright position without external assistance or alterations in load distribution. When a vessel is at an angle of loll, it typically leans to one side, which signifies an inherent stability issue.

This situation is crucial for maritime safety because an angle of loll indicates that the vessel has excessive weight or incorrect weight distribution, leading to a precarious balance. Understanding this angle is essential for safe operations since it can greatly affect the vessel's performance and ability to recover from heeling or pitching in waves.

The other concepts mentioned, such as a vessel's position when it capsizes, the maximum angle of heel achievable, and the angle of heel during rough seas, do not accurately describe the unique characteristics and implications of the angle of loll in vessel stability. Each of those terms relates to different aspects of a vessel's stability and behavior, but they do not capture the essence of an unstable equilibrium as defined by the angle of loll.