What could be the consequence of descending too quickly during a dive?

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Prepare for the PADI Open Water Diver Exam with flashcards and self-assessment quizzes including hints and explanations. Dive into your scuba certification confidently!

Descending too quickly during a dive can lead to decompression sickness, which is a serious condition that occurs when a diver ascends too rapidly after spending time at depth. As a diver goes deeper, the body absorbs more nitrogen from the breathing gas due to the higher pressure. If a diver ascends too quickly, the nitrogen does not have enough time to safely leave the body, and it can form bubbles in the tissues and bloodstream. These bubbles can cause a range of symptoms, from joint pain to more severe neurological issues, and in extreme cases, it can be life-threatening. Proper ascent rates, combined with safety stops, help allow gases to be released from the body in a controlled manner, minimizing the risk of decompression sickness.

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