What is the relationship between displacement and stability in vessels?

The relationship between displacement and stability in vessels is that greater displacement typically increases a vessel's stability. Displacement refers to the weight of the water displaced by the ship's hull, which is directly related to the weight of the vessel.

When a vessel has a greater displacement, it usually means that it has a deeper draft and a larger hull volume, which can contribute to a lower center of gravity and more buoyancy. This increased volume and weight under the vessel's waterline help to stabilize the ship against rolling and pitching movements caused by waves or wind. Essentially, a larger displacement allows the vessel to have more resistance to heeling (leaning to one side), thus enhancing its overall stability.

This principle is particularly important when considering the design and operational characteristics of ships, as vessels that are heavier and more deeply submerged tend to have more stability compared to lighter vessels, which are more prone to instability under certain conditions.