What is the main purpose of a buddy system in diving?

The main purpose of a buddy system in diving is to ensure safety and mutual assistance underwater. This practice involves divers pairing up to watch over each other during dives, significantly enhancing safety. By having a buddy nearby, divers can monitor each other's air supply, physical condition, and overall wellbeing. If one diver encounters a problem, their buddy can provide immediate assistance, which is critical in potentially dangerous underwater environments.

The buddy system fosters communication and coordination, allowing divers to assist each other with tasks that might be difficult to manage alone, such as dealing with underwater currents or equipment malfunctions. This collaborative approach not only increases individual safety but also reinforces the sense of community among divers, as they become more aware of their companions’ actions and needs.

While the other options may describe activities that could occur in a dive context, they do not reflect the essential purpose of the buddy system. Competing in swimming speed and sharing equipment are not foundational to the buddy system’s design, and using the buddy system to distract from environmental concerns misses the critical aspect of safety that the practice is built upon.