Who is recognized for the first scientific approach to decompression?

J.S. Haldane is recognized for the first scientific approach to decompression due to his pioneering work in understanding the physiological effects of diving and the accumulation of nitrogen in the body's tissues during pressure exposure. His research in the early 20th century led to the formulation of decompression tables, which provide guidelines for safe ascent rates and stops during decompression to prevent decompression sickness, also known as "the bends." Haldane's contributions were instrumental in establishing the principles of diving physiology and safety, making his work foundational in the field of diving medicine.

The other individuals mentioned have made significant contributions to science, but their focuses were not specifically on the physiological aspects of diving or decompression. Boyle is known for Boyle's law regarding gases, Archimedes is famous for his principles in buoyancy and hydrostatics, and Dalton is recognized for Dalton's law concerning the behavior of gases, none of which directly address the complexities of decompression in diving contexts.