Scuba Diving International (SDI) Computer Nitrox Practice Exam

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Study for the Scuba Diving International (SDI) Computer Nitrox Exam. Enhance your diving skills with detailed explanations, multiple-choice questions, and expert tips. Be fully prepared for your certification today!

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What is the recommended surface interval after extended dives with Nitrox?

60 minutes
90 minutes
120 minutes
150 minutes

The correct answer is: 120 minutes

The recommended surface interval after extended dives with Nitrox is 120 minutes. This duration is suggested to allow for adequate off-gassing of inert gases that may have accumulated in your body during the extended dive. Extended dives can lead to increased nitrogen absorption, and a longer surface interval helps ensure that these gases are safely eliminated to reduce the risk of decompression sickness. While other options consider surface intervals, they may not provide sufficient time for proper decompression or recovery after the dive, especially when diving with higher percentages of oxygen. Oxygen exposure also increases with longer dives, necessitating a longer surface interval to allow the body to metabolize and clear residual oxygen from the system effectively. Thus, a two-hour surface interval is a prudent safety measure for divers who want to ensure they are adequately prepared for subsequent dives.