What is the purpose of jettison in maritime terms?

The purpose of jettison in maritime terms primarily focuses on the act of deliberately throwing cargo or other items overboard to lighten a vessel in distress, particularly in situations where the ship is threatened by sinking. This action serves to improve buoyancy and stability, allowing the vessel a better chance to survive through rough conditions or emergencies. By removing weight, the crew can help safeguard the ship and ultimately enhance the likelihood of survival for both the vessel and its occupants.

The other choices, while they may pertain to aspects of cargo handling or management, do not capture the critical and life-saving intent behind jettisoning. For instance, saving cargo from decay or efficiently unloading goods generally relate to managing goods without the immediate threat of sinking, and avoiding tax liabilities is outside the realm of maritime safety practices. The act of jettisoning is a vital emergency response to prevent further danger to the vessel.