How can a diver reduce buoyancy?

To reduce buoyancy while diving, one effective method is to exhale. This action decreases the volume of air in the lungs, which in turn reduces the overall buoyancy of the diver. Buoyancy is influenced by the volume of air in a diver's body; when the lungs are fuller, the diver experiences increased buoyancy due to the air acting as a flotation device. By exhaling, the diver decreases lung volume, which decreases the amount of displaced water and allows for greater control over buoyancy.

This understanding aligns with the principles of buoyancy and the relationship between volume and density. As the diver exhales, they also become denser, which helps them descend or stabilize at a desired depth in the water without relying solely on additional weight belts or external weights. This technique is essential during dives for maintaining proper buoyancy control and ensuring safety.