Chapter 11, Problem 37QP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Explanation for the treatment procedure for bends problem for a scuba diver done in a high pressure air chamber is to be described.

Concept Introduction:

The source of diving in which a diver uses his own source of breathing gas for diving is called scuba diver. The pressure underwater is normally higher than that of the pressure at the surface. According to Henry’s Law, solubility of any gas in a liquid is directly proportional to the partial pressure of the gas above the liquid. Thus, solubility or concentration of gas will increase with an increase in the pressure of the gas. During scuba diving, more amounts of oxygen and nitrogen is dissolved in the blood stream of the scuba diver. As he rapidly moves towards the surface, the pressure rapidly decreases and nitrogen comes out as bubbles in tissues and in the blood stream. These bubbles cause the neurological and circulatory symptoms called bends.