What is the relationship between dive time and depth in relation to nitrogen absorption?

The correct choice highlights that deeper and longer dives indeed lead to increased nitrogen absorption. This relationship is fundamentally based on the principles of gas laws, particularly Henry's Law, which states that the amount of gas that dissolves in a liquid is directly proportional to the partial pressure of that gas above the liquid.

As divers go deeper, the pressure increases, which increases the partial pressure of nitrogen in the breathing gas. This results in a higher amount of nitrogen being absorbed into the body tissues. Additionally, during longer dives, the increased time at depth allows for more nitrogen to dissolve in the body. Thus, the combination of greater depth and extended duration leads to a cumulative effect that significantly raises nitrogen levels in the body, which is a critical consideration when planning ascent profiles and managing decompression to avoid decompression sickness.

Understanding this relationship is crucial for divers to calculate safe ascent rates and to ensure they allow adequate time for nitrogen to be off-gassed during the ascent process. Proper dive planning and adherence to safety protocols help prevent the risks associated with nitrogen absorption and accumulation.