What is the primary advantage of using Nitrox for diving?

What is the primary advantage of using Nitrox for diving?

• A. Increased buoyancy
• B. Reduced nitrogen absorption
• C. Improved visibility underwater
• D. Lower equipment costs

Answer: (B)

The primary advantage of using Nitrox for diving is the reduction in nitrogen absorption, which helps decrease the risk of decompression sickness. Nitrox has a higher percentage of oxygen and a lower percentage of nitrogen compared to regular air, which means that divers are exposed to less nitrogen while diving. This reduction in nitrogen exposure allows for longer bottom times and shorter surface intervals, promoting safety during dives. Additionally, because less nitrogen is absorbed, the body has a lower nitrogen load, which can be beneficial during deeper or longer dives, ultimately enhancing a diver's overall safety and comfort underwater. In contrast, while increased buoyancy, improved visibility underwater, and lower equipment costs could be perceived benefits in some contexts, they do not directly contribute to the primary safety advantage that Nitrox offers divers. Increased buoyancy is more related to equipment and diving conditions, visibility is influenced by environmental factors, and equipment costs can vary regardless of the gas used. Thus, the focus on reduced nitrogen absorption as a key benefit of using Nitrox stands out clearly.

The primary advantage of using Nitrox for diving is the reduction in nitrogen absorption, which helps decrease the risk of decompression sickness. Nitrox has a higher percentage of oxygen and a lower percentage of nitrogen compared to regular air, which means that divers are exposed to less nitrogen while diving. This reduction in nitrogen exposure allows for longer bottom times and shorter surface intervals, promoting safety during dives. Additionally, because less nitrogen is absorbed, the body has a lower nitrogen load, which can be beneficial during deeper or longer dives, ultimately enhancing a diver's overall safety and comfort underwater.

In contrast, while increased buoyancy, improved visibility underwater, and lower equipment costs could be perceived benefits in some contexts, they do not directly contribute to the primary safety advantage that Nitrox offers divers. Increased buoyancy is more related to equipment and diving conditions, visibility is influenced by environmental factors, and equipment costs can vary regardless of the gas used. Thus, the focus on reduced nitrogen absorption as a key benefit of using Nitrox stands out clearly.