2007-03-29 On Dangerous Gases

Second theoretical diving lesson today. I was right, it's going to be easy. Nevertheless, I learned interesting facts about the human body. For example: did you know the stimulus which makes us breathe even when we're not aware of it is not the lack of oxygen, but in fact an abundance of CO₂? That's why hyperventilation is so dangerous for divers. Hyperventilation (rapid breathing, that is) reduces the amount of CO₂ in the lungs. So after hyperventilating for a while, a skin diver can hold his breath longer, because there is less toxic carbon dioxide that makes him want to breath out. Unfortunately, the amount of oxygen keeps getting lower and lower when holding breath. When things go bad a diver can lose his consciousness before getting the urge to breath. And of course, fainting under water can become a serious problem. So remember, boys and girls: Never hyperventilate just to squeeze out a few more underwater meters.

I'm not blogging about that because I think it will help anybody. I'm well aware that it is boring for those who didn't already know it and even more boring for those who did. No, I'm actually blogging about it because trying to explain something usually helps me understanding and remembering it myself.

***

Okay, all right then. Next topic. Erm... well... I must admit that I don't have a second topic. Unless of course, you want me to complain about my job. Again. What a rotten place! But this time, a cute little penguin made my day. Salamat, Kristine!