Which of the following best describes the purpose of a safety stop?

The purpose of a safety stop is to allow nitrogen to safely off-gas. During a dive, as a diver descends and ascends, the body absorbs nitrogen from the breathing gas under increased pressure. When ascending, especially from deeper depths, the pressure decreases, and the nitrogen can form bubbles if the diver ascends too quickly. A safety stop, typically at a depth of about 15 to 20 feet for three to five minutes, gives the body extra time to eliminate excess nitrogen safely and reduces the risk of decompression sickness, also known as "the bends." This practice helps ensure that the diver can safely transition back to the surface without complications.

While allowing time for reviewing dive plans, checking dive gear, or preventing equipment failure may be beneficial actions, they do not represent the primary intention of a safety stop. The key focus is on the off-gassing of nitrogen to promote diver safety during ascent.