Which gas law is best associated with medical problems encountered while diving, such as ear and sinus squeeze?

Which gas law is best associated with medical problems encountered while diving, such as ear and sinus squeeze?

• A. Charles's Law
• B. Pascal's Law
• C. Boyle's Law
• D. Dalton's Law

Answer: (C)

Boyle's Law is best associated with medical problems encountered while diving, such as ear and sinus squeeze, because it states that the pressure of a gas is inversely proportional to its volume, assuming temperature remains constant. This fundamental principle is crucial for understanding how gases behave under changing pressure conditions experienced during descent and ascent in a dive. As a diver descends, the surrounding water pressure increases. According to Boyle's Law, the volume of gas in air-filled spaces such as the ears and sinuses decreases as the pressure increases. If a diver does not equalize the pressure in these spaces by methods such as performing the Valsalva maneuver, the increased external pressure can lead to discomfort or injury, commonly referred to as ear or sinus squeeze. This condition occurs when the pressure difference between the external environment and the air-filled spaces in the body is not balanced, causing pain and potential harm. Understanding Boyle's Law is crucial for divers to manage pressure changes effectively and prevent such medical issues while diving.

Boyle's Law is best associated with medical problems encountered while diving, such as ear and sinus squeeze, because it states that the pressure of a gas is inversely proportional to its volume, assuming temperature remains constant. This fundamental principle is crucial for understanding how gases behave under changing pressure conditions experienced during descent and ascent in a dive.

As a diver descends, the surrounding water pressure increases. According to Boyle's Law, the volume of gas in air-filled spaces such as the ears and sinuses decreases as the pressure increases. If a diver does not equalize the pressure in these spaces by methods such as performing the Valsalva maneuver, the increased external pressure can lead to discomfort or injury, commonly referred to as ear or sinus squeeze. This condition occurs when the pressure difference between the external environment and the air-filled spaces in the body is not balanced, causing pain and potential harm.

Understanding Boyle's Law is crucial for divers to manage pressure changes effectively and prevent such medical issues while diving.