What effect does Nitrox have on nitrogen absorption during a dive?

Nitrox, which is a mixture of nitrogen and oxygen, is commonly used in diving to reduce the risk of decompression sickness (DCS). The primary reason for this is that Nitrox has a lower percentage of nitrogen compared to regular air, which contains approximately 78% nitrogen. When divers breathe Nitrox, they take in less nitrogen on each dive, resulting in reduced overall nitrogen absorption by the body.

Minimizing nitrogen absorption is crucial because excessive nitrogen can lead to bubble formation in the bloodstream or tissues during decompression, which is a primary cause of DCS. By using Nitrox, divers can extend their no-decompression limits and decrease the time they need to spend on safety stops, making dives safer and allowing for longer bottom times.

Other options suggest either an increase in nitrogen absorption or no effect, which would contradict the principles of how Nitrox impacts dive physiology. The statement that it only affects nitrogen absorption above certain depths also fails to recognize that Nitrox influences nitrogen levels regardless of depth, making it an effective tool throughout the entirety of a dive. Thus, the correct understanding lies in the reduction of nitrogen absorption when using Nitrox, effectively lowering the risk of DCS and enhancing dive safety.