When planning a dive, what should divers account for in addition to gas volumes?

When planning a dive, it's essential for divers to consider a multitude of factors that can affect their safety and the success of the dive. The inclusion of gas volumes is crucial, but divers must also take into account other environmental and physical factors.

Considering lost decompression gas is a significant aspect of dive planning because it pertains to the potential loss of gas that may occur during the dive. If divers experience issues, such as equipment malfunction or unexpected gas consumption, this could critically affect their ability to safely ascend and decompress according to plan. Proper planning thus must include contingency measures for any unexpected changes in gas availability.

However, divers also need to be aware of water temperature, as it can impact not only the body's thermal regulation but also the density of the gas being used, which in turn affects buoyancy and ascent rates. Surface pressure is another critical aspect, as it affects how divers absorb gases during the dive and the calculations related to decompression stops.

Ultimately, considering all aspects in dive planning—such as gas volumes, water temperature, surface pressure, and potential gas loss—ensures a comprehensive approach to safety and helps in preventing dangerous dive scenarios. This holistic understanding underlines why the correct answer encompasses not just lost gas but all relevant factors in safe