Which of the following is a key environmental factor affecting diving operations?

Temperature is indeed a key environmental factor affecting diving operations. It plays a significant role in the physiological responses of divers and influences various aspects of diving, such as exposure to cold water, which can lead to hypothermia. When divers are exposed to lower temperatures, their body heat can be lost more rapidly, thereby necessitating the use of thermal protection gear, such as wetsuits or drysuits.

Furthermore, temperature can affect the density of the water and, consequently, buoyancy and the breathing gas mixture’s performance, which is crucial for safe and efficient diving. A temperature variance can also impact marine life and visibility conditions, potentially affecting the diving environment and the safety of the divers. Therefore, understanding and monitoring temperature is vital for ensuring diver safety and operational success.