What happens to a diver's body when exposed to colder water compared to air?

When a diver is exposed to colder water compared to air, the diver loses heat more rapidly. Water conducts heat away from the body much more effectively than air does. This is due to the higher thermal conductivity and density of water.

In water, any exposed skin will lose body heat approximately 25 times faster than in air at the same temperature. This rapid heat loss can lead to hypothermia if divers are not properly insulated with wetsuits or drysuits. The body continuously loses heat to the surrounding water, making it crucial for divers to be aware of water temperature and duration of exposure to avoid the risks associated with cold water immersion.

This fundamental principle of heat loss in water explains why divers need to take precautions with temperature management while diving.