Question:

Helium-oxygen mixture is used by deep sea divers in preference to nitrogen-oxygen mixture because ________.

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Helium-oxygen mixture is used by deep sea divers in preference to nitrogen-oxygen mixture because ____.
Updated On: Apr 15, 2026
  • helium is much less soluble in blood than nitrogen
  • nitrogen is much less soluble in blood than helium
  • due to high pressure deep under the sea nitrogen and oxygen react to give poisonous nitric oxide
  • nitrogen is highly soluble in water
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Concept
At high pressures deep under the sea, the solubility of gases in the blood increases according to Henry's Law.
Step 2: Problem with Nitrogen
Nitrogen is highly soluble in blood at high pressure. When a diver ascends rapidly, the dissolved nitrogen forms bubbles in the blood, leading to a painful and dangerous condition known as "the bends" or decompression sickness.
Step 3: Advantage of Helium
Helium is much less soluble in blood than nitrogen even at high pressures. This property makes it a safer diluent for oxygen in diving cylinders.
Step 4: Conclusion
Therefore, helium-oxygen mixtures are preferred to prevent decompression sickness.
Final Answer: (A)
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