What are the consequences of exceeding the no-decompression limit?

Exceeding the no-decompression limit can significantly increase the risk of decompression sickness, commonly known as "the bends." This condition occurs when a diver ascends too quickly after being subjected to increased pressure underwater. When divers exceed the no-decompression limits, nitrogen and other gases absorbed during the dive do not safely off-gas during ascent. Instead, they can form bubbles in the body, leading to serious health issues, including joint pain, paralysis, or even death.

Additionally, exceeding these limits can result in other diving-related injuries or complications. The physiological effects caused by improper ascent can affect the nervous system, airways, and circulation, further compounding the risks. Adhering to the no-decompression limits is crucial for safety while diving, as they are established based on the understanding of how gases dissolve and diffuse within the body under pressure. Thus, option B captures the fundamental dangers of ignoring these important safety limits.