Rapture of the Deep

File:Rapture of the Deep - Deep Purple.jpg

Rapture of the Deep - Deep Purple

== Rapture of the Deep ==

Rapture of the Deep, also known as nitrogen narcosis, is a condition that affects scuba divers at depth. It is caused by the increased partial pressure of nitrogen when a diver descends below approximately 30 meters (100 feet). The condition can impair a diver's judgment, motor coordination, and sensory perception, which can lead to dangerous situations underwater.

Causes

Nitrogen narcosis occurs due to the increased solubility of nitrogen in the body's tissues under high pressure. As a diver descends, the pressure increases, causing more nitrogen to dissolve in the blood and tissues. This excess nitrogen affects the central nervous system, leading to symptoms similar to those of alcohol intoxication.

Symptoms

The symptoms of nitrogen narcosis can vary widely among individuals but commonly include:

• Euphoria or a false sense of well-being
• Impaired judgment and decision-making
• Decreased motor coordination
• Visual and auditory disturbances
• Confusion and disorientation

Prevention

To prevent nitrogen narcosis, divers can:

• Limit their depth to avoid high-pressure environments
• Use helium-based breathing gases such as trimix or heliox, which reduce the amount of nitrogen in the breathing mix
• Ascend to shallower depths if symptoms begin to appear

Treatment

The primary treatment for nitrogen narcosis is to ascend to a shallower depth, where the pressure is reduced, and the symptoms typically resolve quickly. It is important for divers to recognize the signs of nitrogen narcosis and take appropriate action to ensure their safety.

History

The phenomenon of nitrogen narcosis was first described by the French scientist Jacques Cousteau in the 1950s. He referred to it as "rapture of the deep" in his book "The Silent World," highlighting the euphoric and potentially dangerous effects of deep diving.

Related Pages

• Scuba diving
• Decompression sickness
• Trimix
• Heliox
• Jacques Cousteau
• Partial pressure
• Central nervous system

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