What factors affect the rate at which the body becomes saturated with nitrogen?

The rate at which the body becomes saturated with nitrogen is influenced by depth and blood supply. As a diver descends deeper, the pressure increases, causing nitrogen to dissolve more rapidly into the body's tissues. This relationship is governed by Henry's Law, which states that the amount of gas that dissolves in a liquid is proportional to the pressure of the gas above the liquid. Therefore, at greater depths, the increased pressure leads to more nitrogen being absorbed by the body.

Additionally, blood flow plays a significant role. Tissues with a higher blood supply, such as muscles and organs, will absorb nitrogen more quickly than those with less blood flow, like fat. As a result, the combination of depth and the varying rates of blood circulation in different tissues continually impacts how quickly nitrogen is absorbed and how saturation occurs throughout the dive.

Understanding these factors is crucial for safe diving practices, especially when planning for ascents and managing the risk of decompression sickness.