PADI Divemaster Certification Practice Exam

What is the primary function of a surface marker buoy during a dive?

1. To indicate the best ascent point

2. To mark the location of a buddy team or group

3. To attract marine life to the area

4. To signal other divers for assistance

The correct answer is: To mark the location of a buddy team or group

The primary function of a surface marker buoy during a dive is to mark the location of a buddy team or group. This device serves an essential safety purpose by providing a visual reference for divers at the surface, ensuring that the dive team’s position is known. When deployed, the buoy signals not only to other divers but also to boats and other surface traffic, reducing the risk of accidental collisions. Using a surface marker buoy helps maintain situational awareness, allowing divers to stay within a designated area and locate each other more easily. This is particularly vital during deeper dives or in areas with strong currents, where staying in close proximity to each other is important for safety and coordination. While the other functions may appear relevant, they are not the primary purpose of the buoy. For example, signaling for assistance is important, but that is usually accomplished using other means or signals. Attracting marine life is not a function of the buoy at all. Thus, marking the location of a buddy team or group is the most accurate description of the buoy’s key role in dive safety and coordination.