What is a decompression algorithm used for in diving?

A decompression algorithm is a critical tool in diving that is designed to manage the safe ascent of a diver from depth to the surface. Its primary function is to determine ascent rates and specifically, the decompression stops that a diver must make during the ascent.

As divers descend into the water, their bodies absorb inert gases, primarily nitrogen, from the surrounding environment due to increased pressure. As they ascend, this pressure decreases, and if divers ascend too quickly, the nitrogen that has been absorbed can form bubbles in the bloodstream and tissues—a condition known as decompression sickness or "the bends."

The decompression algorithm takes into account the depth and duration of the dive to calculate necessary safety stops and ascent rates that allow the absorbed gases to safely off-gas from the body. By following the recommendations of the algorithm, divers can mitigate the risks associated with rapid ascents.

In contrast, while a decompression algorithm is indirectly related to calculated depths and other dive planning elements, its main focus is on the ascent phase, determining how slowly divers should ascend and when they should pause to allow for safe decompression. This makes it fundamentally different from other considerations like predicting sea conditions or analyzing oxygen consumption, which are not the primary concerns of decompression algorithms.