What is the purpose of the exhaust valve in a dry suit?

The purpose of the exhaust valve in a dry suit is to release excess air from the suit to prevent over-inflation. When a diver ascends, the air within the dry suit expands due to the decrease in surrounding pressure. If this expanding air is not released, it can cause the suit to inflate excessively, potentially leading to discomfort or even injury. The exhaust valve serves to maintain the proper inflation level of the suit by allowing the diver to vent air as needed, ensuring a balanced and comfortable fit.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately describe the function of the exhaust valve. The exhaust valve does not deal with releasing weight or control temperature, and it does not facilitate water flow into the suit, which is more related to how dry suits prevent water ingress through their sealed design. Understanding the specific role of the exhaust valve is essential for safe diving practices and effective use of dry suits.