What effect does reduced nitrogen content have on decompression schedules?

Reduced nitrogen content in breathing gas mixtures, such as Enriched Air Nitrox, decreases the likelihood of decompression sickness. Nitrogen is a gas that dissolves into the body's tissues during a dive, and as a diver ascends and pressure decreases, this nitrogen can form bubbles if it comes out of solution too quickly. By using a gas mixture with a lower nitrogen content than air, divers can minimize the amount of nitrogen that is absorbed during the dive. This reduced absorption directly contributes to a lower risk of developing decompression sickness, which is a critical aspect of dive safety.

The other options do not accurately reflect the outcomes associated with lower nitrogen levels in dive schedules. The effect is specifically related to the risk reduction of decompression sickness, rather than adjustments to safety stop requirements, dive time limits, or having no effect at all. Thus, the correct understanding is that lower nitrogen content makes dives safer by reducing the risk associated with nitrogen exposure at pressure.