What does the term "oxygen toxic" refer to in diving with enriched air?

The term "oxygen toxic" specifically refers to the harmful effects that can occur when a diver breathes in oxygen at high partial pressures. In the context of diving with enriched air, which contains a higher concentration of oxygen compared to regular air, the risk of oxygen toxicity increases as the depth of a dive increases.

When oxygen is breathed under elevated pressures, it can lead to various physiological effects, such as visual disturbances, muscle twitching, seizures, and even loss of consciousness. These symptoms arise because excessive oxygen can lead to the formation of reactive oxygen species, which can damage cells and tissues in the body.

Understanding the partial pressure of oxygen is crucial for divers, as it influences how much oxygen is being absorbed into the body at different depths. Therefore, managing exposure to increased oxygen concentrations is a key aspect of safe diving practices, and recognizing the potential dangers associated with oxygen toxicity ensures that divers can take appropriate precautions to avoid such risks.