What is the relationship between air consumption and dive depth?

The relationship between air consumption and dive depth is influenced by the increased pressure experienced underwater. As a diver descends, the surrounding pressure increases, which in turn impacts how air is consumed.

At greater depths, the density of the air being inhaled increases. This is due to the fact that as pressure rises, the volume of air reduces according to Boyle's Law, meaning that divers are effectively breathing a more concentrated air mixture with more molecules per volume. This leads to a higher rate of oxygen demand and, consequently, a greater volume of air needed to meet that demand for each breath taken.

Moreover, the exertion required to manage increased buoyancy and possible changes in thermoregulation at depth can also contribute to higher air consumption. This is especially notable if the diver is exerting themselves through swimming or managing equipment. Therefore, the tendency is for air consumption to increase as a diver goes deeper, confirming that air consumption generally increases with depth.