PADI Divemaster Certification Practice Exam

What does the term "decompression model" refer to in diving?

1. A formula that determines the safest ascent rate.

2. A system that assesses environmental underwater currents.

3. A calculation method for the duration of surface intervals.

4. A mathematical representation used to compute necessary decompression stops.

The correct answer is: A mathematical representation used to compute necessary decompression stops.

The term "decompression model" refers to a mathematical representation used to compute necessary decompression stops that divers must make during ascent to avoid decompression sickness. These models take into account various factors, such as the depth and duration of a dive, tissue saturation levels, and the specific gases used, to determine how long a diver should safely spend at specific depths during ascent. Decompression models are crucial because they allow divers to optimize their dive plans while managing the risks associated with pressure changes. By calculating the required stops, divers can allow their bodies to off-gas the nitrogen absorbed while they were under pressure, thus minimizing the risk of developing decompression sickness. In contrast, the other options relate to different aspects of diving safety or planning but do not specifically define what a decompression model is. The ascent rate is important for safety, as is assessing underwater currents and determining surface intervals, yet none of these capture the essence of what a decompression model is fundamentally designed to do.