Posted by Isn’t it great to just dive into the vast ocean and be lost in the beauty that it holds? Well, unless you are Aquaman or Little Mermaid, this comes with limitations. These limitations can be lack of adequate oxygen to continue diving deeper, lack of technique to stay underwater, among a few.
This diving experience is enhanced with the help of scuba diving. An underwater diving experience that helps divers use breathing equipment to stay underwater. The term SCUBA was coined by Christian J. Lambertsen in 1952. It stands for “Self-Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus.” This apparatus helps divers in carrying their own source of breathing gas.
So, What Is Scuba Diving?
Well, the diving experience is something that can be done recreationally or professionally- however, the former is more popular. Whenever someone mentions scuba diving, it is mostly something they tried while on vacation. Professionally, the activity is adopted to investigate the secrets of the ocean. Exploration of deep sea life, how the ecosystem thrives and what is still unknown to mankind.
I was recently scrolling through my newsfeed when I stumbled upon an article where the author mentioned how a large percentage (I think 80%) of the ocean does not receive light and stays that way. This was interesting and stuck with me particularly due to the next fact they mentioned- there is a law known as the “square cube law.”
For those who are unfamiliar as I was- this law limits the growth of living things beyond a certain point, such that they do not get crushed under their own weight.
The author in that post said that this law does not apply in the deep sea- meaning that whatever creature dwells in the unexplored part of the ocean, could be massive! This is something to look forward to- as the known creatures of the ocean already have the title of being one of the biggest water mammals.
Equipment Needed During Scuba Diving
A scuba set consists of the following equipment that help divers explore the ocean and enjoy the activity. A scuba gear includes the following parts:
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Breathing Apparatus
The self-contained underwater breathing apparatus allows the divers to breathe during the activity. It is carried by the diver and is referred to as a ‘scuba set.’ Descending results in the atmospheric pressure being accompanied by hydrostatic pressure which can lead to complications if it is not balanced.
The increasing hydrostatic pressure is nearly 1 bar per 10 m or 33 feet of depth. In addition, the pressure that is inhaled by the diver must be balanced with respect to the surroundings such that the inflation of the lungs is controlled. This is made possible through the use of breathing apparatus, which balances the pressure.
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Diving Suit
The overall buoyancy of the diver while diving is balanced with the use of diving suits which doesn’t just protect the outer surface of the skin. Depending on the temperature of the water- a diver may opt for a wet suit or a dry one. Dry suits are used when the water is cold and vice versa for wet suits.
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Weighting Systems
Used for similar purposes as a diving suit, the weighting systems ensure that the buoyancy is maintained underwater. This equipment contributes to adjusting the overall buoyancy. These systems help in reducing the diver’s weight such that the buoyant ascension during an emergency is facilitated.
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Buoyancy Control
When underwater, divers aim to maintain a neutral buoyancy so that the swimming efforts are minimized. The minimization of the effort ensures that the depth is maintained while consuming the least amount of gas.
The other equipment that are useful for a diver include mobility fins and safety equipment and accessories such as masks. Mobility of the diver is maintained through the use of mobility fins, facilitating propulsion and improving mobility.
Lastly, in case of emergencies such as when emergency ascent is necessary, a bailout cylinder comes in handy when emergency breathing is required.
Limitations Of Scuba Diving
Oxygen toxicity is a limitation that divers may breathe nitrox mixtures that can limit their depth reachability. This posed a significant barrier to the advancements that humankind were making in deep sea exploration for various purposes. The military purpose that was facing this hindrance was solved by the US Navy who explored the possibility of using helium.
The animal experiments showed positive results which allowed human subjects to breathe helium in a 20/80 ratio. This consisted of 20% oxygen and 80% helium. The successful decompressions from deep dives showed positive signs of this mix.
Another limitation offered by the activity was high-pressure nervous syndrome. This disorder is characterized by physiological and neurological issues that are a result of divers descending at depths lower than 500 m. This was addressed through the invention of a trimix which was a mixture used during the Project Genesis.
Wrapping It Up!
This was all on the exciting underwater activity that is a means of livelihood at famous tourist locations near the sea. The article described the basics of scuba diving and the equipment that is needed. The proper instructions on scuba diving can be obtained through a trained professional who can provide you with the correct guidance.
Have you tried it yet?
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