What is a consequence of ascending too quickly?

Ascending too quickly during a dive can result in several serious consequences, primarily due to the rapid change in pressure. When a diver ascends too fast, nitrogen that has been absorbed into the body at depth can come out of solution too quickly, leading to bubble formation in body tissues and the bloodstream. This condition is known as decompression sickness or "the bends."

Additionally, quick ascents can cause barotrauma, which is injury to body tissues due to pressure changes, particularly affecting air-filled spaces like lungs, sinuses, and ears. The injury results from the inability of these areas to equalize pressure properly. Therefore, ascending at a controlled rate allows for the gradual release and elimination of nitrogen from the body, reducing the risk of such injuries.

The other options do not accurately reflect the serious risks associated with fast ascents, reinforcing the importance of adhering to ascent protocols to ensure a safe diving experience.