In a compartment that has been completely flooded with water, the greatest pressure will be exerted __________.

Correct Answer: Option D — along the bottom of any bulkhead

Hydrostatic pressure is directly proportional to the depth of the fluid column. According to the principles of fluid mechanics, pressure increases linearly with depth. Therefore, the maximum pressure exerted by a static body of water against a bulkhead occurs at the lowest point, where the head of water is greatest.