What is the main characteristic of enriched air nitrox as opposed to regular air?

Enriched air nitrox is characterized by having a higher oxygen content compared to regular air, which is approximately 21% oxygen and 79% nitrogen. In contrast, enriched air nitrox typically contains between 22% and 40% oxygen, depending on the specific blend. This increased oxygen content is significant for divers because it can extend the no-decompression limits, allowing them to spend more time at depth and reducing the risk of nitrogen narcosis and decompression sickness.

The higher oxygen levels in enriched air nitrox enhance the diver's ability to breathe more efficiently at certain depths, thus providing potential benefits for longer and safer dives. Understanding this difference is crucial for divers who wish to use nitrox safely and effectively, as it requires different considerations regarding planning dives, managing oxygen exposure, and adjusting to different gas mixes.