What are the types of cargo commonly transported by tankers?

The correct answer highlights the primary categories of cargo that tankers are specifically designed to transport. Tankers are specialized vessels built to carry liquid cargo, primarily in bulk. The types of cargo mentioned—crude oil, refined petroleum products, chemicals, and liquefied gases—are all fluids that can be transported efficiently in large quantities by these ships.

Crude oil is the raw material from which numerous petroleum products are derived. Refined petroleum products include gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel, all of which are essential to various sectors of the economy. Chemicals transported by tankers can include a wide range of substances, from industrial chemicals to hazardous materials that require careful handling. Liquefied gases, such as liquefied natural gas (LNG) and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), are also transported by specially designed gas tankers due to the unique properties and handling requirements of these gases.

Other options mention cargo types that are typically not transported by tankers. For instance, coal, iron ore, and timber are generally transported using bulk carriers, while heavy machinery and electronics are typically shipped in containers aboard container ships. This distinction is important because each type of vessel is optimized for specific cargo types, ensuring safety and efficiency in the transport process