How does higher oxygen content in Nitrox affect a diver's buoyancy?

Higher oxygen content in Nitrox can affect a diver's buoyancy due to the difference in density between the gases involved. Nitrox is a blend of nitrogen and oxygen, and when the proportion of oxygen is increased, the overall mixture becomes less dense than regular air, which consists of about 78% nitrogen and 21% oxygen.

As a result, an increase in the buoyancy of the diver may slightly occur since less dense gas provides some lift. When divers use a Nitrox blend with a higher oxygen percentage, the decreased density of the gas can contribute to an increase in buoyancy, albeit modestly.

This concept is important to understand for divers, as it may require adjustments to their buoyancy control techniques, specifically during ascent and descent. Factors like the diver's body composition, the type of exposure protection worn, and the equipment used may also play a role in overall buoyancy dynamics.

Thus, diving with Nitrox, which has a higher oxygen content, can indeed increase buoyancy slightly, making it essential for divers to remain aware of their buoyancy management when utilizing enriched air mixtures.