What is the principle behind Boyle's Law in diving?

Boyle's Law states that the volume of a gas is inversely proportional to its pressure when the temperature is held constant. This principle is crucial in diving because as a diver descends underwater, the surrounding water pressure increases, which causes the volume of any trapped gas (such as air in the lungs or in scuba tanks) to decrease.

For instance, if a diver goes deeper, the increase in pressure will compress the gas volume in their lungs or any airspaces in their body. If the diver ascends, the pressure decreases, allowing the gas to expand. Understanding this relationship helps divers avoid complications like barotrauma, which can occur if they ascend too quickly without allowing the gases in their body to properly expand. Thus, the direct connection of Boyle's Law to the inverse relationship between volume and pressure is critical for safe diving practices.