What is the primary benefit of using dive tables?

The primary benefit of using dive tables lies in helping divers understand safe limits for depth and time. Dive tables are specifically designed to provide information about how long a diver can safely stay at a certain depth without incurring the risks associated with decompression sickness, also known as "the bends." They offer guidance on surface intervals and how these factors relate to nitrogen absorption in the body, which is crucial for planning dives safely and effectively.

Each table is created with the understanding that as a diver descends deeper or remains underwater for extended periods, increased nitrogen absorption occurs. This creates a necessity for divers to monitor their time and depth to avoid exceeding these safety limits. Proper use of dive tables assists in maximizing safety during dives, reducing the likelihood of accidents associated with improper dive planning.

In contrast, other options do not highlight the core purpose of dive tables. While air management is vital, diving tables do not directly assist in preventing air shortages. They do not provide underwater navigation tips or specific gear recommendations; those considerations fall under different areas of diving knowledge. Therefore, the correct choice emphasizes dive tables' essential role in guiding divers regarding depth and time limits.