Sukellusfysiikka

Sukellusfysiikka, or diving physics, is the study of the physical principles governing human diving. It primarily concerns the effects of pressure and gas laws on the human body underwater.

The most significant factor in diving is ambient pressure, which increases with depth. For every 10 meters of seawater descent, the pressure increases by approximately one atmosphere. This pressure affects the volume and partial pressures of gases within the body, particularly in air-filled spaces like the lungs, sinuses, and middle ears.

Boyle's Law, a fundamental principle in diving physics, states that for a fixed amount of gas at a constant temperature, pressure and volume are inversely proportional. This means as a diver descends, the air in their lungs compresses, and as they ascend, it expands. Improper ascent can lead to lung overexpansion injuries.

Dalton's Law of Partial Pressures is also crucial. It explains that the total pressure of a gas mixture is the sum of the partial pressures of its individual component gases. Underwater, the partial pressure of gases like nitrogen and oxygen increases with depth. This increased partial pressure of nitrogen can lead to nitrogen narcosis, a condition affecting cognitive function. The increased partial pressure of oxygen can lead to oxygen toxicity at greater depths.

Henry's Law governs the dissolution of gases into liquids. At depth, more nitrogen dissolves into the diver's tissues. During ascent, this dissolved nitrogen needs to be released slowly to prevent bubble formation, which can cause decompression sickness, commonly known as "the bends." The rate of ascent and the use of decompression stops are calculated based on these principles to ensure safe gas elimination. Understanding these physical laws is essential for safe diving practices.