What characterizes a repetitive dive?

A repetitive dive is characterized by any dive conducted while nitrogen is still present in the body from a previous dive. When divers descend, their bodies absorb nitrogen from the breathing gas, which is typically air. After ascending and surfacing, nitrogen remains in the body tissues for a period of time, depending on the depth and duration of the previous dives. If a diver goes back into the water before the nitrogen has been safely eliminated or the body has fully off-gassed, it constitutes a repetitive dive.

Understanding this concept is crucial for diver safety, as failing to account for residual nitrogen can increase the risk of decompression sickness, also known as "the bends." Divers need to carefully monitor their dive schedules and adhere to no-decompression limits to manage nitrogen levels effectively.