An atmosphere layer that protects earth from harmful solar radiation
The atmosphere layer that primarily protects the Earth from harmful solar radiation is called the ozone layer. It is located in the stratosphere, which is the second layer of the Earth's atmosphere.
To understand why the ozone layer plays a crucial role in protecting the Earth from harmful solar radiation, let's go through the steps involved:
1. Ozone Formation: Ozone (O3) forms when oxygen (O2) molecules are broken apart by ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. UV-C radiation is completely absorbed in the atmosphere's upper layers, but UV-B and a small amount of UV-A reach the Earth's surface.
2. Ozone Layer Location: The ozone layer is found within the stratosphere, approximately 10 to 50 kilometers above the Earth's surface. This layer is characterized by an increased concentration of ozone molecules.
3. Ozone Absorption: The ozone layer plays a critical role in protecting the Earth from harmful solar radiation by absorbing the majority of the Sun's UV-B and UV-C radiation. These high-energy ultraviolet rays can cause harm to living organisms, affecting DNA, causing skin cancer, and damaging ecosystems.
4. Ozone Depletion: Over the years, human activities have released pollutants into the atmosphere, primarily chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), which have destructive effects on the ozone layer. These chemicals break down ozone molecules, depleting the ozone layer and creating a hole in it. This phenomenon is particularly seen over Antarctica, known as the "ozone hole."
In conclusion, the ozone layer, located in the stratosphere, protects the Earth from harmful solar radiation by absorbing the majority of the Sun's UV-B and UV-C rays. It acts as a shield, preventing these high-energy radiation types from reaching the Earth's surface and causing damage to ecosystems and living organisms.