During a rappelling operation, what two elements must a rescuer primarily manage?

In a rappelling operation, managing descent and subject control is crucial for ensuring both the safety of the rescuer and the individual being rescued. Descent refers to how the rescuer maneuvers down the rope, requiring careful adjustment of their speed and angle to navigate smoothly and safely. Managing descent involves utilizing proper techniques to control the rate of movement, which is vital for avoiding accidents or injuries.

Subject control focuses on maintaining a stable and secure connection between the rescuer and the person being rescued. This includes ensuring that the subject remains steady during the descent, which can be challenging if they are panicking or moving erratically. Effective subject control allows the rescuer to contribute to the overall safety of both parties during the rappelling process.

In contrast, while the other choices do encompass important aspects of rappelling, they don't capture the primary responsibilities at the forefront of a rescuer's focus. Weight and momentum are considerations but are secondary to the immediate management of descent and control of the subject. Similarly, stability and attachment pertain to equipment and safety checks but do not address the direct actions taken by the rescuer during the operation. Lastly, gear integrity and subject weight are important factors to assess; however, they relate more to preparation and risk assessment rather