What happens to the PWC when the throttle is released?

When the throttle on a Personal Watercraft (PWC) is released, the PWC loses its steering ability primarily because most PWCs are designed to use the forward motion created by the throttle to maintain steering control. Unlike some other types of boats, PWCs rely on water flow through the jet nozzle for steering. When you decrease or release the throttle, the water pressure decreases, which means the PWC will not have sufficient force to maintain direction effectively.

This lack of steering control can lead to a dangerous situation, especially if the operator is trying to maneuver quickly or avoid obstacles. It is important for operators to be aware of this characteristic and to keep the throttle engaged while navigating to maintain steering ability. Thus, understanding the mechanics of how a PWC operates is crucial for safe handling on the water.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the behavior of a PWC when the throttle is released. While reducing throttle can cause a decrease in speed, it does not automatically bring the craft to a full stop, nor does it cause it to float.