What is the primary role of dive tables in Nitrox diving?

The primary role of dive tables in Nitrox diving is to calculate maximum allowable bottom times and to plan safe ascents. These tables are essential for divers using special gas mixtures such as Nitrox, which contains higher oxygen levels than regular air. They help divers understand how long they can safely remain at various depths without risking oxygen toxicity or decompression sickness.

Dive tables provide critical information that allows divers to plan their dives effectively. This includes determining how deep they can go, how long they can stay at that depth, and the required decompression stops necessary during ascent to help the body eliminate absorbed nitrogen. Proper use of these tables is crucial for ensuring safe diving practices and preventing potential diving-related health issues.

While other options could relate to aspects of diving, they do not directly address the specific function of dive tables in Nitrox diving, which is fundamentally about managing time and depth for safety rather than influencing dive equipment, temperature, or depth directly.