When conducting an inclining experiment, what is critical regarding the initial state of the vessel?

In an inclining experiment, the key factor regarding the initial state of the vessel is that it must be free of external forces. This is crucial because external forces such as wind, waves, or current can interfere with the measurements taken during the experiment, leading to inaccurate results. The purpose of the inclining experiment is to determine the vessel's center of gravity by measuring the angles of heel when known weights are moved. If the vessel is subjected to external forces, the resulting data may reflect these influences rather than the vessel's true stability characteristics.

Having the vessel at anchor, docked, or loaded with maximum cargo may not control for all external influences, and these conditions could introduce additional variables that skew the results. By ensuring the vessel is free from external forces, the accuracy and reliability of the inclining experiment are maintained, allowing for a clear assessment of the vessel's stability.