Question

In one or two sentences, state whether you would expect the condition to be a greater hazard for divers as they dive down or as they return to the surface. Then, explain your prediction in terms of the solubility of gases in liquids at different pressures.

Answer 1

I would expect the condition to be a greater hazard for divers as they return to the surface. This is because, as divers ascend, the pressure decreases, leading to a reduction in the solubility of gases in the bloodstream; if dissolved gases, such as nitrogen, come out of solution too quickly, they can form bubbles in the tissues, leading to decompression sickness or "the bends."