What is termed as the stern cross-section of a square-sterned boat?

The stern cross-section of a square-sterned boat is referred to as the transom. The transom is the flat surface at the rear of the boat, and it serves several important functions. It provides structural support for the stern of the vessel, and it is also where the outboard motor is often mounted if the boat is equipped with one. The transom aids in maintaining the stability and integrity of the vessel, especially in terms of its hydrodynamic performance and how it interacts with the water.

In contrast, the chine is the sharp edge between the bottom and the sides of a hull, which influences how the boat handles in the water. The gunwale is the upper edge of the boat's sides, providing a structural edge that also helps keep water out of the vessel. The keel is the central structural component that runs along the bottom of the boat, providing stability and helping to keep it upright in the water. Understanding the function and location of these different parts of a boat is crucial for safe navigation and operation.