Scuba Diving Physics and Physiology of Diving

Question 1

How much does absolute pressure increase for every 33 feet (10 meters) of seawater depth?

Accepted Answer

1 ATM (14.7 psi)

Answer

Seawater pressure increases by 1 atmosphere (14.7 psi) for every 33 feet (10 m) of depth, so at 33 ft the absolute pressure is 2 ATM total.

Question 2

According to Boyle's Law, if a diver exhales a 4-liter bubble at 66 feet (3 ATM absolute), what volume will it be at the surface?

Accepted Answer

12 liters

Answer

Boyle's Law states P1V1 = P2V2; at 3 ATM, 4 L × 3 = 12 L at 1 ATM on the surface.

Question 3

Which gas law explains why a diver's lungs could rupture if they hold their breath while ascending?

Accepted Answer

Boyle's Law

Answer

Boyle's Law shows that gas volume expands as pressure decreases on ascent; holding your breath traps expanding gas that can over-pressurize the lungs.

Question 4

Henry's Law, as it applies to scuba diving, describes which phenomenon?

Accepted Answer

More gas dissolves into blood as pressure increases

Answer

Henry's Law states that the amount of gas dissolved in a liquid is proportional to the partial pressure of that gas, which is why nitrogen absorbs into tissues at depth.

Question 5

What is nitrogen narcosis most commonly compared to in terms of its effect on a diver?

Accepted Answer

Alcohol intoxication

Answer

Nitrogen narcosis causes impaired judgment, euphoria, and reduced motor skills at depth, effects that closely resemble alcohol intoxication.

Scuba Diving Practice Test

Scuba Diving Practice Test

Scuba Diving Physics and Physiology of Diving