What is the purpose of using an oxygen analyzer in scuba diving with Nitrox?

Using an oxygen analyzer in scuba diving with Nitrox is essential for verifying the oxygen content in the gas mixture. Nitrox is a blend of nitrogen and oxygen with a higher percentage of oxygen than regular air, which typically contains about 21% oxygen. Different mixtures, such as EAN32 or EAN36, contain specific percentages of oxygen.

The oxygen analyzer provides precise measurements of the concentration of oxygen in the dive tank, allowing divers to confirm that the gas they are breathing matches their planned mixture. This is crucial for ensuring safety during dives because improper oxygen levels can lead to oxygen toxicity, particularly at greater depths where partial pressure increases. By accurately verifying the gas mixture, divers can make informed decisions about their dive plan, including adjusting depth limits and bottom times to avoid risks associated with breathing higher oxygen concentrations.

The other options do not pertain to the primary role of an oxygen analyzer in this context. For example, measuring diving depth, ensuring the correct safety equipment is used, and calculating dive duration are important aspects of diving safety and planning, but they are not related to the function of the oxygen analyzer.