In a diving context, what does EAN stand for?

The term EAN stands for Enriched Air Nitrox, which is a mixture of nitrogen and oxygen with a higher percentage of oxygen than that found in regular air. Enriched Air Nitrox is commonly used in recreational diving because it allows divers to extend their bottom time and reduce their exposure to nitrogen, which can help minimize the risk of decompression sickness.

Using EAN provides divers with advantages such as extending no-decompression limits and decreasing the amount of nitrogen absorbed by the body during a dive. This mixture typically contains between 22% and 40% oxygen, which varies based on the specific dive plan and certification level of the divers. Understanding the properties and benefits of EAN is essential for divers, as it helps them plan dives more effectively and enjoy safer diving experiences.

The other options do not correctly represent the term EAN in the context of diving. Environmental Air Nitrogen, Equalized Air Nitrox, and Enhanced Air Nitrogen are not recognized terminologies in the diving community, making it crucial to know that Enriched Air Nitrox is the specific term used to describe this type of gas mixture for divers.