What does nitrogen narcosis affect during deep dives?

Nitrogen narcosis primarily impacts cognitive function and judgment during deep dives. It occurs due to the increased partial pressure of nitrogen at greater depths, which can lead to a state similar to intoxication. This physiological effect disrupts mental processes, impairing a diver's ability to think clearly, assess situations, and make sound decisions.

As divers descend to depths typically beyond 30 meters (around 100 feet), the effects of nitrogen narcosis can become more pronounced, increasing the risk of poor decision-making or misjudgment about dive procedures and safety protocols. Understanding this phenomenon is crucial for divers, as it underscores the need for awareness of one’s limits and the importance of diving within recommended depth ranges to minimize these risks.

The other options, while important in their own contexts, do not directly relate to the immediate effects of nitrogen narcosis during deep dives. For instance, physical strength may be affected by fatigue or other factors, but it is not the primary concern with nitrogen narcosis. Similarly, body temperature regulation and oxygen absorption have more to do with other diving-related conditions or physiological processes rather than the specific neuro-cognitive impacts of nitrogen at depth.