Figure 8. Loss of cohesion in larger groups of inline swimmers.

Number of swimmers that stay in cohesive formation depends on parameter values. (A–C) For dissipation time ${\tau }_{\text{diss}}=2.45T$, $3.45T$, and $4.45T$, the fourth, fifth, and sixth swimmers separate from the group, respectively. (D) Power savings per swimmer in (A–C), respectively. On average, all schools save equally in cost of transport, but the distribution of these savings vary significantly between swimmers. In all case, swimmer 3 receives the most hydrodynamic benefits.