What is the primary reason compressed air must be carefully managed during a dive?

Managing compressed air during a dive is essential primarily because of its role in minimizing decompression sickness risk. When divers ascend from depths where they have been exposed to increased pressure, nitrogen that has been absorbed into the body's tissues must be eliminated safely. If a diver ascends too quickly, the sudden reduction in pressure can cause nitrogen to form bubbles in the body, leading to decompression sickness, also known as "the bends."

Proper management involves monitoring depth and dive time, adhering to safe ascent rates, and making necessary safety stops. By controlling the exposure to compressed air and the rate of nitrogen absorption and elimination, divers significantly reduce the risk of experiencing dangerous decompression sickness.

While other factors such as avoiding tank rupture, addressing nitrogen narcosis, and maintaining buoyancy are important aspects of diving, they do not directly relate to the management of compressed air in the same critical manner as preventing decompression sickness does. Therefore, minimizing the risk of decompression sickness is the primary reason why careful management of compressed air is vital during a dive.