What is essential to consider for maintaining the appropriate distance between end skaters during pivoting in a whip intersection?

Maintaining the appropriate distance between end skaters during pivoting in a whip intersection is crucial for ensuring that the formation remains cohesive and safe. The diameter of a circle encompassing all skaters directly correlates to how far apart skaters need to be positioned, as it defines the space required for smooth movement and maneuverability without causing collisions.

When skaters execute a whip intersection, they need to pivot around a central point, effectively moving in a circular path. The diameter of this circle is essential because it establishes the radius for each skater's position during the maneuver. If the skaters are spaced too closely, they risk running into each other or losing synchronization, which can lead to a breakdown in the formation.

While aspects such as the height, weight, and speed of the skaters can influence skating performance and the dynamics of synchronization, they are not as critical as the geometric considerations provided by the diameter of the encompassing circle. The diameter is an objective measurement that directly affects how skaters navigate their movements around one another in a whip intersection, leading to a more fluid and harmonious execution.