Top Posters
Since Sunday
a
5
k
5
c
5
B
5
l
5
C
4
s
4
a
4
t
4
i
4
r
4
r
4
Home Q & A Board Biology-Related Homework Help Anatomy and Physiology
New Topic  
nite_n_day nite_n_day
wrote...
Go to Answer
Posts: 4086
Rep: 267 1
10 years ago
Ralph is taking scuba diving classes, and is warned not to hold his breath when ascending from depth but to continuously release air from his mouth. What is the basis of this instruction and what is the risk if it is ignored? 
Read 3558 times
2 Replies
Would you know my name, if I saw you in heaven?

Eric Clapton
Replies
wrote...
#1
Valued Member
10 years ago
When breathing underwater with scuba equipment, gas is supplied by the tank at higher than atmospheric pressure to overcome the extra pressure imposed by the overlying water. According to Boyle's Law, during ascent when the pressure falls, the volume of gas contained in the lungs will expand. If not permitted to escape through the mouth, it will damage the lung, sending air into the bloodstream. A massive air embolism in the pulmonary arteries could be suddenly fatal.
Don't forget to give me a thumbs up!
Answer accepted by topic starter
nite_n_day Authornite_n_day
wrote...
#2
Top Poster
Posts: 4086
Rep: 267 1
10 years ago
Sign in or Sign up in seconds to unlock everything for free
1
Would you know my name, if I saw you in heaven?

Eric Clapton

Related Topics
New Topic      
Quick Reply
Explore
Post your homework questions and get free online help from our incredible volunteers
  1392 People Browsing
 126 Signed Up Today
Start New Topic Take the Tour CoursesNew Study Tools Topics Trending Browse by Textbook
Live Chat
Related Images
  
 325
  
 337
  
 1036
Your Opinion
Do you believe in global warming?
Votes: 370
Previous poll results: How often do you eat-out per week?