Which gas law best explains diving medical problems such as ear and sinus squeeze?

Boyle's law is the most relevant gas law when discussing diving medical issues like ear and sinus squeeze because it describes how the volume of a gas is inversely related to pressure, provided the temperature remains constant. As a diver descends, the surrounding water pressure increases, leading to a decrease in the volume of any gas present in closed spaces such as the middle ear or sinuses. If the pressure differential between the external pressure and the pressure of the trapped gas is not equalized, it can result in discomfort or injury, commonly referred to as squeeze.

During descent, if a diver does not perform equalization maneuvers, the compressed air in the ear and sinus cavities can become trapped and can create significant pressure differences, resulting in pain and potential injury to the tissues. Understanding Boyle's law helps divers appreciate the need for equalization techniques as they descend and the importance of not holding their breath during ascent, as it highlights how gas expands with decreasing pressure.

Other gas laws, while significant in their own contexts, do not directly address the relationship between pressure and volume in a way that applies to these specific medical issues encountered by divers.