Which statement is true about descent and ascent using the buoyancy compensator?

Which statement is true about descent and ascent using the buoyancy compensator?

• A. Your buoyancy compensator should be used to control rate of descent or ascent
• B. Descent should be performed without any buddy communication
• C. Ascent rate should ignore computer limits to save time
• D. None of the above

Answer: (A)

Controlling vertical movement with the buoyancy compensator is how you manage descent and ascent. The BCD lets you adjust buoyancy by adding air to become more buoyant or venting air to become less buoyant, so you can descend or ascend at a safe, controlled rate rather than relying on force of propulsion or guessing your speed. At depth, you seek neutral buoyancy to hover or move smoothly, and you use the BCD to fine-tune your position as you breathe, shift depth, or follow your computer’s limits. For ascent, you progressively vent air to reduce buoyancy and rise at a safe pace, again using the BCD to keep the rate within recommended limits. Communication with your buddy and adherence to your dive computer limits are important, but the essential fact here is that the buoyancy compensator is the primary tool to regulate how fast you descend or ascend.

Controlling vertical movement with the buoyancy compensator is how you manage descent and ascent. The BCD lets you adjust buoyancy by adding air to become more buoyant or venting air to become less buoyant, so you can descend or ascend at a safe, controlled rate rather than relying on force of propulsion or guessing your speed. At depth, you seek neutral buoyancy to hover or move smoothly, and you use the BCD to fine-tune your position as you breathe, shift depth, or follow your computer’s limits. For ascent, you progressively vent air to reduce buoyancy and rise at a safe pace, again using the BCD to keep the rate within recommended limits. Communication with your buddy and adherence to your dive computer limits are important, but the essential fact here is that the buoyancy compensator is the primary tool to regulate how fast you descend or ascend.