Which quality makes a life jacket effective at keeping you afloat?

Which quality makes a life jacket effective at keeping you afloat?

• A. Bright color only.
• B. High price.
• C. Buoyancy that keeps the wearer afloat.
• D. Aerodynamic design.

Answer: (C)

The main idea is buoyancy—the upward force that keeps you afloat. A life jacket adds volume and/or foam or an inflatable bladder, which displaces water and creates lift to support your weight. That buoyant force is what actually keeps your body above the surface, so you stay afloat. Bright color helps others see you, but it doesn’t provide lift. A higher price doesn’t guarantee more floating power, and an aerodynamic design won’t help you stay buoyant. The key is the jacket’s buoyancy—the ability to keep you afloat.

The main idea is buoyancy—the upward force that keeps you afloat. A life jacket adds volume and/or foam or an inflatable bladder, which displaces water and creates lift to support your weight. That buoyant force is what actually keeps your body above the surface, so you stay afloat. Bright color helps others see you, but it doesn’t provide lift. A higher price doesn’t guarantee more floating power, and an aerodynamic design won’t help you stay buoyant. The key is the jacket’s buoyancy—the ability to keep you afloat.