What is a significant advantage of using Nitrox over traditional air for diving?

Using Nitrox for diving offers a significant advantage in terms of longer bottom time due to reduced nitrogen exposure. When divers breathe air at depth, they absorb nitrogen along with oxygen, and this nitrogen can lead to a higher risk of decompression sickness upon ascent, as it forms bubbles in the body if not properly managed during the ascent.

Nitrox, which has a higher concentration of oxygen and reduced levels of nitrogen compared to regular air, allows divers to extend their bottom times at certain depths while still managing the risk of nitrogen absorption. This means that for the same depth and dive profile, a diver using Nitrox can remain underwater longer than a diver using standard air, thus enhancing the overall diving experience and allowing for extended explorations.

The other choices do not provide the same significant benefits for diving. Higher thermal conductivity does not have a substantial impact on the advantages of using Nitrox. Increased air supply is not a feature of Nitrox, as the volume of gas carried remains the same. Lastly, Nitrox does not have inherently more buoyant properties than air; buoyancy is generally determined by the overall density of the gas being used and the diver's equipment. Therefore, the option highlighting longer bottom times due to reduced nitrogen exposure is the most accurate representation