Wreck & Cave Diving Fundamentals Flashcards

In cave diving, what is a 'jump' or 'jump connection'?

Answer: A technique to cross from one guideline to another at a T or junction

A jump allows a diver to leave one guideline and connect to another at a junction using a jump reel to maintain a continuous line.

What is the recommended minimum number of lights a cave diver should carry?

Answer: One primary and two backups

Cave divers carry three lights — one primary and two backups — because total darkness renders the dive immediately life-threatening.

Which hazard unique to wreck diving can cause a diver to become positively buoyant unexpectedly?

Answer: Air pockets trapped in inverted compartments

Air pockets trapped in inverted hull sections can cause unexpected buoyancy shifts if a diver enters or exits them.

What is the significance of a 'line arrow' (permanent arrow) placed on a cave guideline?

Answer: It indicates the direction toward the closest exit

Permanent arrows always point toward the nearest exit, helping disoriented divers find their way out quickly.

Which diving condition is most likely to cause rapid loss of guideline visibility in a wreck or cave?

Answer: Fine silt disturbed by exhaust bubbles or fin kicks

Fine silt particles are easily suspended by exhaust bubbles or poor fin technique, causing rapid and complete visibility loss.

Under PADI standards, the maximum depth for recreational wreck diving (non-technical) is:

Answer: 40 meters / 130 feet

PADI's recreational diving limit is 40 meters / 130 feet, which applies to all recreational wreck diving.

What is the primary reason that overhead environments require special training beyond standard open water skills?

Answer: Divers cannot make a direct vertical ascent to the surface in an emergency

The inability to make a direct emergency ascent means all life-threatening problems must be solved underwater without the option of quickly surfacing.