1.
What does SCUBA stand for?
Correct Answer
C. Self Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus
Explanation
SCUBA stands for Self Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus. This term refers to a diving equipment that allows divers to breathe underwater without being connected to the surface. The apparatus contains a tank of compressed air that the diver can breathe through a regulator. The correct answer option accurately describes the purpose and function of SCUBA equipment.
2.
What is the No. 1 rule of Scuba Diving?
Correct Answer
D. While scuba diving never hold your breath.
Explanation
The No. 1 rule of scuba diving is to never hold your breath. This is because holding your breath while ascending can cause air expansion in your lungs, leading to serious injuries such as lung overexpansion injuries and arterial gas embolism. It is important to continuously exhale while ascending to release the expanding air from your lungs.
3.
What is the second rule of Scuba Diving?
Correct Answer
D. When scuba diving don't ascend too quickly.
Explanation
The second rule of Scuba Diving is to not ascend too quickly. Ascending too quickly can lead to decompression sickness, also known as "the bends," which is a potentially dangerous condition caused by the formation of nitrogen bubbles in the body. To avoid this, divers must ascend slowly and make decompression stops at certain depths to allow the excess nitrogen to be released safely.
4.
How fast should you ascend?
Correct Answer
A. 1/2 the speed of your smallest air bubbles, 30 feet per min.
Explanation
The correct answer is 1/2 the speed of your smallest air bubbles, 30 feet per min. This is the recommended ascent rate for scuba divers to prevent decompression sickness. Ascending too quickly can cause nitrogen bubbles to form in the body, leading to serious health risks. By ascending at a rate of 30 feet per minute, divers allow their bodies to safely release excess nitrogen and avoid decompression sickness.
5.
The air in your scuba tank is comprised of ___ oxygen and __ nitrogen.
Correct Answer
A. 21%, 79%
Explanation
The air in a scuba tank is mainly composed of 21% oxygen and 79% nitrogen. This mixture is carefully balanced to provide enough oxygen for breathing while minimizing the risk of oxygen toxicity. The high nitrogen content is necessary to prevent nitrogen narcosis, a condition that can occur at depth due to the increased pressure. Therefore, the correct answer is 21% oxygen and 79% nitrogen.
6.
What is likely to be affected by the type and amount of suspended particles in the water?
Correct Answer
A. The visibility.
Explanation
The type and amount of suspended particles in the water can have a direct impact on the visibility. When there are more particles in the water, such as sediment or algae, it can reduce the clarity of the water, making it more difficult to see clearly underwater. This can affect activities like diving or snorkeling, as it may be harder to navigate or observe marine life. The dive computer, buoyancy, and water temperature are not directly affected by the suspended particles in the water.
7.
A thermocline ___.
Correct Answer
C. Is an abrupt change of water temperature.
Explanation
A thermocline refers to an abrupt change in water temperature. This phenomenon occurs when there is a rapid change in temperature with depth in a body of water. The thermocline acts as a barrier, separating warmer surface water from colder deep water. This temperature gradient can have significant effects on the distribution of marine life and can impact various oceanic processes such as nutrient cycling and oceanic currents.
8.
What is the best course of action when you are out of air and your diving partner (buddy) is close-by?
Correct Answer
C. Switch to your dive partner's alternate air source.
Explanation
Switching to your dive partner's alternate air source is the best course of action when you are out of air and your diving partner is close-by. This allows you to continue breathing while you ascend to the surface together, ensuring both of your safety. Signaling to ascend, filling your tank, and coming down again may take too much time and could potentially lead to a dangerous situation. Jerking your partner's regulator may cause panic and is not a recommended or safe approach.
9.
How often is a "visual inspection" performed?
Correct Answer
A. Every 12 months
Explanation
A "visual inspection" is performed every 12 months. This suggests that it is a regular and recurring activity that needs to be carried out on a consistent basis. It is likely that this inspection is necessary to ensure the safety and proper functioning of something, such as equipment or a structure, that requires visual examination to identify any potential issues or defects.
10.
How much faster than air does water conduct heat?
Correct Answer
A. 25 times faster
Explanation
Water conducts heat 25 times faster than air. This means that heat transfers more quickly through water compared to air. The molecules in water are closer together and have more interactions, allowing heat to be transferred more efficiently. This is why water is often used as a coolant in various applications, as it can absorb and dissipate heat more effectively.
11.
A mask squeeze is caused when the out-side pressure is lower than the pressure in the air space in the mask.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
A mask squeeze is caused when the outside pressure is higher than the pressure in the air space in the mask. This can happen when a diver descends to greater depths where the water pressure increases. As the pressure inside the mask remains the same, the higher external pressure causes the mask to squeeze against the diver's face, potentially causing discomfort or injury. Therefore, the correct answer is False.
12.
First aid treatment for a person suffering from decompression illness always includes 100% inhaled oxygen.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Decompression illness, also known as "the bends," occurs when a person ascends too quickly from a deep dive or high-pressure environment. This condition can cause nitrogen bubbles to form in the bloodstream, leading to various symptoms such as joint pain, dizziness, and difficulty breathing. Administering 100% inhaled oxygen is a crucial first aid treatment for decompression illness. Oxygen helps to remove nitrogen from the body more efficiently, reducing the size of the bubbles and alleviating symptoms. Therefore, the statement is true.
13.
Which two materials are scuba tanks made from?
Correct Answer
B. Aluminum or steel
Explanation
Scuba tanks are typically made from aluminum or steel. These materials are used because they are strong and durable enough to withstand the high pressure of the compressed air or gas inside the tank. Aluminum tanks are lighter and more buoyant, making them easier to handle underwater, while steel tanks are heavier and more durable, making them suitable for deep dives and rough conditions.
14.
How often is it recommended to have your scuba tank hydrostatically tested?
Correct Answer
C. Every 5 years
Explanation
Scuba tanks need to be hydrostatically tested every 5 years. This test is necessary to ensure the tank's structural integrity and safety. It involves subjecting the tank to high pressure to check if it expands or leaks. Regular testing helps identify any potential issues or weaknesses in the tank that may have developed over time. It is important to adhere to this recommended testing frequency to ensure the tank is in good condition and safe to use during scuba diving activities.
15.
Due to light refraction, objects underwater appear:
Correct Answer
C. Larger and closer
Explanation
When light passes from one medium to another, such as from air to water, it changes speed and direction, causing refraction. This refraction causes objects underwater to appear larger because the light rays bend towards the normal, making the object seem magnified. Additionally, the refraction also makes the objects appear closer because the light rays bend away from the normal as they enter our eyes, giving the illusion that the object is nearer than it actually is.
16.
What does RNT stand for on a dive table?
Correct Answer
C. Residual Nitrogen Time
Explanation
RNT stands for Residual Nitrogen Time. This refers to the amount of time a diver must wait before ascending to the surface to allow their body to eliminate excess nitrogen absorbed during the dive. This is an important factor in dive planning to prevent decompression sickness.
17.
A diver is more buoyant in the sea than in a lake.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The density of saltwater in the sea is higher than that of freshwater in a lake. This higher density of saltwater creates more buoyant force, allowing the diver to float more easily in the sea compared to a lake. Therefore, the statement is true.
18.
The large majority of surface waves are caused by:
Correct Answer
A. Wind
Explanation
Surface waves are primarily caused by wind. When wind blows across the surface of a body of water, it creates friction and transfers energy to the water, causing it to move in a circular motion. These circular motions form waves that propagate across the surface. While underwater earthquakes, boats and ships, and underwater volcanoes can also cause surface waves, they are relatively less common compared to the influence of wind. Therefore, wind is the most likely cause of the large majority of surface waves.
19.
Sound travels __ times faster in water than in air due to density.
Correct Answer
B. 4
Explanation
Sound travels 4 times faster in water than in air due to density. This is because water is denser than air, meaning that sound waves can propagate more quickly through the molecules in water compared to air. The denser the medium, the faster sound can travel.
20.
What percent of air is oxygen?
Correct Answer
A. 21%
Explanation
The correct answer is 21% because oxygen makes up approximately 21% of the Earth's atmosphere. This is an important fact as oxygen is essential for the survival of many living organisms, including humans.
21.
What is the main purpose of the "divers down" flag?
Correct Answer
C. To notify any boats in the area that there are divers in the water.
Explanation
The "divers down" flag is used to notify any boats in the area that there are divers in the water. This flag is displayed on a vessel or a buoy to indicate that there are divers below and that boats should proceed with caution. It is an important safety measure to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of the divers.
22.
Divers must stay within ___ feet of the diver down flag at all times.
Correct Answer
B. 100
Explanation
Divers must stay within 100 feet of the diver down flag at all times. This is important for safety reasons as it helps to ensure that divers are visible to boats and other watercraft, reducing the risk of accidents or collisions. Staying within this distance also allows for easier communication and coordination between divers and their support team on the surface.
23.
Boaters distance from the divers down flag is dependent on State and local laws, but generally it is:
Correct Answer
D. 300 feet
Explanation
The correct answer is 300 feet. The distance between boaters and divers down flag is generally 300 feet, although it may vary depending on State and local laws. This distance ensures the safety of the divers and prevents any potential accidents or disturbances caused by the presence of boats. It allows divers to have sufficient space to operate safely without interference from boaters.
24.
What action is NOT likely to cause decompression sickness?
Correct Answer
A. Descending too quickly.
Explanation
Descending too quickly is not likely to cause decompression sickness because decompression sickness, also known as "the bends," occurs when dissolved gases (usually nitrogen) come out of solution and form bubbles in the body during or after a decrease in pressure. Descending too quickly does not allow enough time for the gases to come out of solution and form bubbles, reducing the risk of decompression sickness.
25.
What are the two basic parts of a regulator called?
Correct Answer
A. The first and second stage
Explanation
The two basic parts of a regulator are the first stage and the second stage. The first stage is responsible for reducing the high pressure from the tank to an intermediate pressure, while the second stage delivers the air to the diver at a breathable pressure.
26.
What may be the cause if you are not able to equalize your body's air spaces while ascending or descending?
Correct Answer
A. A cold or an allergy.
Explanation
If you are not able to equalize your body's air spaces while ascending or descending, a possible cause could be a cold or an allergy. Both a cold and an allergy can cause congestion and inflammation in the nasal passages and Eustachian tubes, making it difficult for air to flow in and out of the middle ear. This can lead to a feeling of pressure or discomfort in the ears and can make it challenging to equalize the air spaces while changing altitude.
27.
Most dive injuries caused by aquatic organisms result from a/an __ response from the organism.
Correct Answer
A. Defensive
Explanation
Aquatic organisms can cause injuries during diving due to their defensive response. When they perceive a threat or feel endangered, they may react by attacking or defending themselves. This defensive behavior can result in injuries to the diver. Offensive, unintentional, and reflexive responses are not as likely to cause injuries in this context.
28.
What is mask squeeze?
Correct Answer
A. When the outside water pressure presses the mask against your face.
Explanation
Mask squeeze refers to the condition when the outside water pressure presses the mask tightly against your face. This can cause discomfort and potential injury to the diver's face and eyes. The pressure exerted by the water can be quite strong, especially at deeper depths, and can result in pain, bruising, and even broken blood vessels. It is important to properly equalize the pressure inside the mask by exhaling through the nose, ensuring a comfortable and safe diving experience.
29.
At what depth will you reach 3 ATM (atmpsheres of pressure)?
Correct Answer
C. 66 feet
Explanation
At a depth of 66 feet, the pressure exerted on an object will be equivalent to 3 atmospheres (atm) or 3 times the normal atmospheric pressure at sea level. This is because pressure increases with depth due to the weight of the water above. Each additional 33 feet of depth adds another atmosphere of pressure. Therefore, at 66 feet deep, the pressure will be 3 atm.
30.
What is "the bends?"
Correct Answer
B. It is a common name for decompression sickness.
Explanation
The term "the bends" is a common name for decompression sickness. Decompression sickness occurs when a diver ascends too quickly from a deep dive, causing nitrogen bubbles to form in the bloodstream. This can lead to various symptoms, including joint and muscle pain, dizziness, and difficulty breathing. The nickname "the bends" comes from the fact that the symptoms often include severe joint pain, which can cause the affected person to bend over in pain.
31.
What does the hand signal when you "slit your throat" mean?
Correct Answer
A. I am out of air.
Explanation
The hand signal of "slitting your throat" typically signifies that the person is out of air. This gesture is commonly used in situations where verbal communication is difficult or impossible, such as underwater or in loud environments. By making this hand signal, the person is indicating that they are running out of breath and need to surface or get more air.
32.
Which of the following can happen if you hold your breath while scuba diving?
Correct Answer
D. All of the above
Explanation
If you hold your breath while scuba diving, several things can happen. Firstly, you can injure your lungs because the pressure underwater can cause damage if air is trapped inside. Secondly, you can sustain life-threatening injuries because the pressure can cause air to expand and damage your organs. Lastly, air can get released into your bloodstream, which can lead to serious complications like embolism. Therefore, all of the above options are possible consequences of holding your breath while scuba diving.
33.
If you feel discomfort or pain when descending you can ascend a few feet to make equalization easier.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
If a person experiences discomfort or pain while descending, ascending a few feet can help make equalization easier. Equalization refers to the process of balancing the pressure between the middle ear and the surrounding environment, which is important for divers or individuals in high-pressure environments. By ascending a few feet, the pressure on the ears decreases, allowing for easier equalization and potentially relieving discomfort or pain. Therefore, the statement is true.
34.
What is the phenomenon called when your ears or sinuses hurt while you are descending?
Correct Answer
D. A squeeze
Explanation
When your ears or sinuses hurt while descending, it is referred to as a squeeze. This phenomenon occurs due to the change in pressure as you descend, causing a pressure difference between the inside and outside of your ears or sinuses. This pressure imbalance can lead to discomfort or pain, commonly known as a squeeze. It is important to equalize the pressure by performing techniques like swallowing, yawning, or using the Valsalva maneuver to relieve the discomfort.
35.
Nitrogen narcosis is most common at:
Correct Answer
D. Depths approaching 99 feet and deeper
Explanation
Nitrogen narcosis, also known as "raptures of the deep," is a condition that can occur when a diver descends to great depths. The increased pressure at these depths causes nitrogen to dissolve in the body's tissues, leading to symptoms similar to alcohol intoxication. While nitrogen narcosis can occur at various depths, it becomes most common and pronounced as the diver approaches 99 feet and deeper. At these depths, the effects of nitrogen narcosis can be severe and potentially dangerous, impairing judgment, coordination, and decision-making abilities. Therefore, depths approaching 99 feet and deeper are where nitrogen narcosis is most likely to occur.
36.
"An object is buoyed up by the weight of the water it displaces" is:
Correct Answer
B. Archimedes Princle of Buoyancy
Explanation
Archimedes' Principle of Buoyancy states that an object is buoyed up by the weight of the water it displaces. This means that when an object is submerged in a fluid, it experiences an upward force equal to the weight of the fluid it displaces. This principle helps explain why objects float or sink in a fluid based on their density.
37.
What is nitrogen narcosis caused by?
Correct Answer
B. Increased levels of dissolved nitrogen in the blood.
Explanation
Nitrogen narcosis is caused by increased levels of dissolved nitrogen in the blood. When a diver descends to great depths, the pressure causes nitrogen to dissolve into the bloodstream. This excess nitrogen can have a narcotic effect on the brain, leading to symptoms such as confusion, impaired judgment, and loss of coordination. It is not caused by a psychological defense mechanism, breathing compressed air for too long, or lack of oxygen to the brain.
38.
How often should you equalize your body air spaces during a descent to 50 feet?
Correct Answer
B. Every few feet, before you feel any discomfort
Explanation
During a descent to 50 feet, equalizing your body air spaces every few feet, before you feel any discomfort, is important. This is because as you descend, the pressure increases, which can cause discomfort and pain in your ears and sinuses. By equalizing your body air spaces regularly, you can prevent this discomfort and potential damage to your ears. Waiting until you feel discomfort or pain may indicate that the pressure has already built up too much, making it more difficult to equalize and potentially causing injury. Therefore, it is best to equalize every few feet to prevent any discomfort from occurring.
39.
What is a recommended care strategy for scuba tanks?
Correct Answer
C. Always leave some pressurized air in the tank.
Explanation
It is recommended to always leave some pressurized air in the scuba tank. This is because an empty tank can lead to moisture buildup which can cause corrosion and damage to the tank. Additionally, leaving some pressurized air in the tank helps to prevent contaminants from entering and causing damage.
40.
How does a neoprene wetsuit affect your buoyancy?
Correct Answer
C. A neoprene wetsuit increases your buoyancy.
Explanation
A neoprene wetsuit increases your buoyancy because it is made of a material that traps a layer of air between the suit and your body. This trapped air provides additional buoyancy, making it easier for you to float in the water.
41.
The dive knife is used primarliy:
Correct Answer
A. As a tool.
Explanation
The correct answer is "as a tool." A dive knife is primarily used as a tool for various purposes while diving, such as cutting through tangled ropes, lines, or fishing nets, prying open shells, or signaling underwater. While it can be used for self-defense in rare situations, its main function is to assist divers in practical tasks rather than as a weapon or for showing off.
42.
How should you clean your regulator after use if it is not attached to your scuba tank?
Correct Answer
C. With warm fresh water, after removing the regulator dust cap, drying it and firmly reattaching it to the first stage.
43.
An ear squeeze can be prevented by:
Correct Answer
D. Valsalva- pinch your nose, tilt head back to stretch Eustachian Tube and breath slowly. Clear every 2 feet to equalize.
Explanation
Descending faster can actually increase the risk of ear squeeze, as the pressure changes in the ear can occur more rapidly. Holding your breath can also worsen the situation, as it can cause the pressure in the middle ear to build up. Breathing slowly and using the Valsalva maneuver (pinching the nose, tilting the head back, and breathing slowly) is a recommended technique to prevent ear squeeze. This maneuver helps to equalize the pressure in the middle ear by opening the Eustachian tube and allowing air to flow. Clearing every 2 feet while descending helps to maintain equalization throughout the descent.
44.
When a diver displaces water equal to their own weight he/she is neutrally buoyant.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
When a diver displaces water equal to their own weight, it means that the upward force exerted by the water is equal to the downward force exerted by the diver's weight. This results in a balanced condition where the diver neither sinks nor floats, known as neutral buoyancy. Therefore, the statement is true.
45.
How can you tell that you are properly weighted when you are in the water?
Correct Answer
A. You are floating at eye level while holding your breath and with your BCD empty.
Explanation
When you are properly weighted in the water, you should be able to float at eye level while holding your breath and with your BCD (Buoyancy Control Device) empty. This indicates that your body is buoyant enough to stay afloat without any additional air in your BCD. If you are sinking slowly while holding your breath and with your BCD half-filled, it means you are overweighted and need to adjust your weights. Floating at neck level with your BCD filled suggests that you are overweighted and may have too much air in your BCD. Being neutrally buoyant while not wearing your weight belt means that you are not properly weighted and may need to add weights to achieve neutral buoyancy.
46.
Optimum dive time would be at:
Correct Answer
B. 30-40 min. before high slake tide occurs.
Explanation
The optimum dive time would be 30-40 minutes before high slack tide occurs. High slack tide is the period when the tide changes from coming in to going out or vice versa. Diving during this time allows for better visibility and less current, making it safer and more enjoyable. Additionally, diving before high slack tide ensures that the tide is still rising, which can provide a more interesting and diverse underwater environment.
47.
What is the common term for the time a diver spends at the surface to allow excess nitrogen to off gas from their blood and tissues?
Correct Answer
B. Surface interval
Explanation
The common term for the time a diver spends at the surface to allow excess nitrogen to off gas from their blood and tissues is known as the "surface interval". This period is crucial for divers to ensure that they have enough time to eliminate the excess nitrogen absorbed during the dive, reducing the risk of decompression sickness.
48.
The symptoms of nitrogen narcosis are said to be similar to:
Correct Answer
A. Alcohol intoxication
Explanation
Nitrogen narcosis is a condition that occurs when a person dives to great depths underwater and experiences an altered state of consciousness due to the increased pressure of nitrogen in their body. The symptoms of nitrogen narcosis, such as impaired judgment, euphoria, and loss of coordination, are similar to those of alcohol intoxication. Both conditions can cause confusion, impaired motor skills, and a feeling of being "out of it." This similarity in symptoms is due to the fact that both alcohol and nitrogen affect the central nervous system, leading to similar impairments in cognitive and physical functioning.
49.
Where are you exposed to 1 ATM (atmosphere) of pressure?
Correct Answer
D. At sea level
Explanation
At sea level, you are exposed to 1 ATM (atmosphere) of pressure. This is because at sea level, the weight of the air above you exerts a pressure of approximately 1 atmosphere. As you go deeper underwater, the pressure increases, so at 33, 66, or 99 feet, the pressure would be greater than 1 ATM.
50.
What will happen to your wetsuit as you descend?
Correct Answer
C. It will compress and decrease your buoyancy.
Explanation
As you descend underwater, the pressure increases. This increased pressure causes the air trapped inside the wetsuit to compress, making the wetsuit tighter against your body. This compression also leads to a decrease in buoyancy, making it harder for you to float or stay at the surface of the water.