What does "descent time" refer to in diving?

Descent time refers specifically to the duration it takes for a diver to travel from the surface of the water to the desired depth or the bottom of the dive. This measurement is crucial in dive planning and safety, as it helps divers understand their progression underwater and manage their air supply accordingly.

Understanding descent time is vital for various reasons, including preventing issues related to pressure changes and ensuring that divers remain within their desired depths for both safety and enjoyment of their dive. Factors such as descent rate and environmental conditions can affect this time, making it an important aspect of dive training and execution.