What are dive tables used for?

Dive tables are specifically designed to help divers understand and manage their nitrogen absorption and elimination during underwater activities. They provide critical information regarding no-decompression limits, which are the maximum time a diver can spend at a specific depth without requiring mandatory decompression stops during ascent. By using dive tables, divers can ensure that they stay within safe limits, minimizing the risk of decompression sickness, commonly known as "the bends."

While other activities related to diving, such as measuring water temperature, recording dive times, and logging marine life observations, are important aspects of overall dive planning and experiences, they do not relate directly to the primary function of dive tables. The main focus of these tables is the safe management of exposure to nitrogen while diving, making the determination of no-decompression limits their key purpose.