The ozone layer is unique to Earth in the planets of our solar system. (a) What is the approximate height of the ozone layer above Earth’s surface and in which layer of the atmosphere does the ozone layer exist? (b) Why is the ozone layer important for survival of life on Earth.
(a) The ozone layer is located approximately 10-50 kilometers above Earth's surface, in the stratosphere layer of the atmosphere.
(b) The ozone layer is important for the survival of life on Earth because it absorbs the majority of the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Without the ozone layer, this UV radiation would reach the Earth's surface and cause harm to living organisms, including humans. UV radiation can cause skin cancer, cataracts, and other health issues, as well as damage to plant life and aquatic ecosystems. By absorbing and filtering out this harmful radiation, the ozone layer helps to protect life on Earth.