Citation Source

Citation: K2

Document: NOAA Diving Manual Diving for Science and Technology 4th edition NOAA 2001

Page: 104

Section: 2-18 NOAA Diving Manual NO TES

Source confidence: 72%

Cited Passage

The fins provide propulsion for divers who are heavily encumbered with equipment and make underwa- ter swimming much easier. Human leg muscles are very efficient for underwater propulsion when properly equipped. When divers are fully geared up, it may not be possible for them to use their hands for swimming purposes, since straps and thermal protection suits inhibit normal arm movement. In addition, scientific divers are usually carry- ing instruments, slates, or other equipment that make it impractical to use their arms for swimming. The human leg provides propulsion under water by moving the levers of the body, i.e. the femur and tibia, to provide thrust through the use of the fins. Since these bones are of different lengths in each individual, providing a differ- ent mechanical advantage for each diver, there is no one fin that will work best for each person. A fin that works very 5-2 NOAA Diving Manual FIGURE 5.3 Adjustable Heel Strap Fins FIGURE 5.2 Snorkel with Attached Snorkel Holder

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