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4. A diver is 20 m underwater and they are startled by a shark. They are tempted to take a big breath of air, drop their gear, and swim to the surface while holding their breath. Explain why this is dangerous g

User Zach Esposito
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1 Answer

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28 votes

Answer:

Step-by-step explanation:

The air enters their lungs at the same pressure as the water at that depth.

If they hold their breath as they rise to atmospheric pressure, the expanding volume of air (due to decreasing pressure) trapped in their lungs will hyperextend the alveoli in their lungs, likely tearing blood lines and risking death by drowning in their own blood.

User JeffS
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