What could be a potential consequence of exceeding your no-decompression limits?

Exceeding no-decompression limits can lead to decompression sickness because these limits are established to help divers avoid the complications that arise from ascending too quickly after spending time at depths where inert gases, mainly nitrogen, are absorbed by the body. When a diver exceeds these limits, it can result in a situation where nitrogen bubbles form in the bloodstream and tissues, leading to various symptoms that might include joint pain, paralysis, or even death in severe cases. Properly adhering to no-decompression limits helps to ensure a safe ascent and minimizes the risk of these serious health effects.

The other potential choices do not accurately reflect the consequences of exceeding no-decompression limits. For instance, gaining more time underwater is misleading, as instead of extending your dive time safely, exceeding the limits increases your risks. Gear adjustments are not automatic in response to such situations, and buoyancy does not increase as a direct result of surpassing no-decompression limits; instead, it is largely unrelated to this aspect of diving safety.