Final answer:
High altitude training helps the body adapt to lower oxygen levels by producing more hemoglobin, a process that takes about 10 days and the benefits of which are maintained for several weeks after returning to lower altitudes. Mountain climbers carry bottled oxygen to prevent hypoxia during strenuous climbs at high altitudes. Proper planning of oxygen needs and efficiency of usage is critical during such climbs.
Step-by-step explanation:
High altitude training is a method used by athletes and mountain climbers to improve their endurance and performance. As altitude increases, the oxygen concentration in the air decreases, and the body must adapt to the lower oxygen levels. This adaptation involves producing more hemoglobin, and the adjustment process takes approximately 10 days. High altitude training is beneficial for athletes seeking to enhance their oxygen-carrying capacity and is typically maintained for several weeks after returning to lower altitudes. However, if high altitude exposure is brief, a condition called acute mountain sickness (AMS) can occur, presenting symptoms like headaches and nausea.
Mountain climbers often carry bottled oxygen at high altitudes to prevent hypoxia. When engaged in strenuous activities such as climbing, oxygen usage can double compared to normal conditions, necessitating careful calculation of oxygen needs for extended climbs. Additionally, the efficiency of a climber's oxygen usage and the amount of useful work done can be scientifically calculated, taking into account factors such as the altitude gained and the mass of the climber and equipment.