Which function does a fathometer not perform?

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A fathometer, also known as a depth sounder, primarily serves to measure water depth beneath a vessel. It operates by emitting sound waves from the vessel's transducer to the seabed and records the time it takes for the echoes to return, allowing the system to calculate the depth of the water.

The function that a fathometer does not perform is guiding ships underwater. While a fathometer provides crucial information on water depth, it does not have capabilities to navigate or direct a vessel while submerged. Navigation involves more complex systems that consider a variety of data points beyond just depth, such as underwater topography, currents, and other navigational aids.

Other functions mentioned, such as measuring water depth and making deep-sea soundings, are standard operations for a fathometer. Detecting underwater currents is typically outside the usual function of a fathometer, which focuses more on depth measurement rather than current detection; however, some advanced sonars can be used for this purpose, but a basic fathometer does not fulfill that role. Thus, guiding ships underwater stands out as the function not performed by a fathometer.

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