Which physiological effects can nitrogen narcosis have?

Nitrogen narcosis is a condition that can occur during deep diving, primarily due to the increased partial pressure of nitrogen as a diver descends. The correct answer highlights that nitrogen narcosis can lead to reduced cognitive abilities and impaired motor skills. This effect is akin to that of alcohol intoxication, where the diver may experience diminished mental clarity, slowed reaction times, and an overall decrease in the ability to perform tasks effectively.

As divers go deeper, the symptoms can increase in severity, potentially causing confusion, euphoria, and altered judgment, all of which can significantly impair decision-making and coordination. This impairment poses serious safety risks, as it can lead divers to make poor choices or miscalculate their actions while underwater.

The other choices describe effects that are not consistent with nitrogen narcosis. Increased energy levels and awareness would contradict the expected cognitive and motor decline, while improved coordination and reflexes, as well as greater focus on diving tasks, suggest enhancements in performance rather than the detrimental effects associated with nitrogen narcosis. Understanding these physiological impacts is essential for safe diving practices, especially at greater depths.