Which describes the important role of the ozone layer?(1 point)
Responses
A. It protects the surface from extreme weather.
B. It prevents the air from getting thinner.
C. It absorbs harmful ultraviolet radiation.
D. t increases the oxygen level.
C. It absorbs harmful ultraviolet radiation.
To determine the correct answer, we need to understand the role of the ozone layer. The ozone layer is a region in the Earth's stratosphere that contains high levels of ozone (O3) molecules. It plays a critical role in protecting life on Earth by absorbing the majority of the Sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
Now let's analyze the answer choices:
A. It protects the surface from extreme weather.
This answer choice is incorrect. The ozone layer primarily protects against UV radiation, not extreme weather conditions.
B. It prevents the air from getting thinner.
This answer choice is incorrect. The ozone layer does not have a direct impact on the density of the air.
C. It absorbs harmful ultraviolet radiation.
This answer choice is correct. The ozone layer acts as a shield, absorbing a significant amount of the Sun's harmful UV radiation before it reaches the Earth's surface. This is crucial because prolonged exposure to UV radiation can lead to various health issues, including skin cancer and cataracts.
D. It increases the oxygen level.
This answer choice is incorrect. While ozone is made up of oxygen molecules, the ozone layer does not directly increase the oxygen level in the Earth's atmosphere.
Therefore, the correct answer is C. It absorbs harmful ultraviolet radiation.