Which mechanism limited deep loading of 18th-century sailing ships despite sufficient cargo space?

💡 Explanation

When a ship is loaded too deeply, increased hydrostatic pressure acts on the lower hull because the water depth increases, causing excessive stress that could lead to leaks or structural failure. Therefore, hull stress limits deep loading, rather than rope, sailcloth, or mast failure, each requiring separate specific forces or conditions not related to hydrostatic pressure.

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