Final answer:
Steering ability in a personal watercraft can be lost due to damaged or broken steering mechanisms, environmental factors disrupting balance, or damage to propulsion mechanisms like propellers.
Step-by-step explanation:
Loss of steering ability in a personal watercraft can be caused by several factors, one of which is directly related to the interaction between the oars (or steering controls in the case of motorized watercraft) and the water. If the steering mechanism is damaged or broken, such as an oar being too thin and near its breaking point, the ability to navigate is compromised. Additionally, environmental factors like waves that cause water to enter the craft can disrupt the balance and contribute to the loss of steering. When considering powered watercraft, the propulsion mechanism, such as propellers, is crucial. If propellers are not maintained or are damaged due to marine environments or marine life, this could also lead to a loss of steering capacity.