Why is it vital for divers to know about potential toxicity at greater depths?

Understanding potential toxicity at greater depths is essential for divers because increasing pressure underwater can alter the behavior of gases in the body, leading to conditions such as oxygen toxicity and nitrogen narcosis. As divers descend, the partial pressures of inhaled gases change, which can have significant physiological effects. By being aware of these risks, divers can effectively manage their dive times, ensuring they stay within safe limits to avoid adverse health effects. This awareness is crucial for enhancing safety during dives, allowing divers to plan their ascent and descent profiles accordingly to mitigate the chances of toxicity-related incidents.

The other options do not accurately reflect the critical nature of understanding gas toxicity in diving. While increasing the number of dives completed might seem advantageous, it is not a priority over safety. The time of day or promoting environmental preservation, although valuable in their contexts, does not specifically address the health and safety implications that come with understanding diving physiology at various depths.