Which specific wavelength of solar radiation is primarily absorbed by the Ozone layer?
The ozone layer specifically excels at absorbing UV-B radiation (280–315 nm). While it absorbs all UV-C radiation (the most dangerous), UV-B is the wavelength that partially reaches the surface and causes sunburn, skin cancer and cataracts. By absorbing most of the UV-B, the ozone layer prevents these harmful biological effects from devastating terrestrial life. ANSWER: (C) UV-B radiation
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Solar ultraviolet radiation is categorized into UV-A, UV-B and UV-C based on wavelength. The ozone layer acts as a selective filter. It completely blocks UV-C, which is highly lethal but luckily absorbed by oxygen and ozone high up. UV-B, however, is only partially absorbed. A thinning ozone layer leads to an increase in UV-B reaching the surface, which disrupts photosynthesis in plants, kills phytoplankton in the oceans and damages the DNA of humans and animals. This is why maintaining the integrity of the stratosphere’s chemical balance is a global priority for biological health.
The ozone layer absorbs harmful UV-B radiation from the Sun, protecting life on Earth. Without this absorption, ultraviolet rays would cause skin cancer, eye damage and harm ecosystems. This makes ozone extremely important for maintaining environmental balance and safeguarding all living organisms on Earth.
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