What is the primary function of an oxygen analyzer?

The primary function of an oxygen analyzer is to measure the percentage of oxygen in a tank. This is crucial for divers, particularly when using gas blends for specific types of dives, such as those involving nitrox or trimix. Knowing the exact percentage of oxygen helps ensure that divers are using appropriate gas mixtures to manage their exposure to oxygen and avoid issues such as oxygen toxicity.

In dive planning and execution, maintaining the correct oxygen levels is vital for safety, especially considering that higher concentrations of oxygen can lead to increased risk at certain depths. The use of an oxygen analyzer allows divers to verify that their breathing gas corresponds to their planned dive profile, ensuring they can safely enjoy their underwater activities without risking hypoxia or other oxygen-related issues.

Other functions listed in the options, like regulating air pressure, measuring water temperature, or clarifying underwater visibility, pertain to different tools and equipment used in diving and do not accurately reflect the primary role of an oxygen analyzer, which is specifically focused on oxygen content in breathing gas.