What effect does oxygen have at greater depths?

Get ready for the SSI Specialty Course Enriched Air Nitrox (SC-EAN) 40% Level 2 Test. Review key concepts with flashcards and multiple choice questions, complete with hints and detailed explanations. Prepare for success!

At greater depths, the partial pressure of oxygen increases due to the increased pressure of surrounding water. This heightened partial pressure can lead to a condition known as oxygen toxicity, which manifests in several ways, including central nervous system effects such as visual disturbances, muscle twitching, and seizures. The risk of oxygen toxicity increases significantly when diving with enriched air nitrox because of its higher oxygen concentration compared to normal air.

Diving deeper means that divers need to be particularly aware of the limits of exposure to oxygen to avoid serious health risks. Understanding this aspect is crucial for safe diving practices when using nitrox mixtures. The other options do not accurately reflect the implications of increased depth on oxygen's effects, as the increase in pressure does not directly reduce muscle strength, enhance visibility, or remain without significant impact.

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