LSM3212 AY2011/12 SEM1 Tutorial 3: Breathing Underwater Venue: SR, MD9 Time: 2-4pm (Group B) & 4-6pm (Group

A), 2 Nov 2011 2-4pm (Group D) & 4-6pm (Group C), 9 Nov 2011

Q1: SCUBA diving You and your friend George were SCUBA diving 30 meters underwater. After 20 minutes George started to behave strangely and did not respond to your signals. Suddenly, a large sand shark approached George. He was scared and ascended quickly to the surface holding his breath. Knowing the risk of breath-holding upon ascent, you decided to ascend calmly and breathe as usual. Immediately after returning to the water surface, George complained about severe chest pain and difficulty in breathing. 100% oxygen was administered to him on the boat.

1. Using your knowledge of respiratory physiology, explain what might have

happened to George before and after the appearance of the shark. 2. If the same situation occurred after an hour of diving, what would be another possible risk that George might have encountered? What would have been the proper treatment under this condition?

Q2: Breath-hold diving Discuss how Japanese Ama divers are able to stay in 20 meters deep underwater with holding their breath for 2 minutes and still return to the water surface safely!