Which layer of the atmosphere contains the protective 'Good Ozone' that absorbs harmful incoming solar ultraviolet (UV-B) radiation?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. Stratosphere
- Step 1: Ozone () exhibits distinct environmental impacts depending on its atmospheric altitude.
- Step 2: The ozone layer is concentrated in the stratosphere, approximately above the Earth's surface.
- Step 3: Stratospheric ozone acts as an important planetary shield by absorbing high-energy solar UV-B radiation (), preventing cellular DNA damage and cataracts in terrestrial organisms.
Answer
Stratosphere.
Why not the others: Troposphere contains 'bad ozone' formed as a secondary air pollutant and major component of photochemical smog, causing respiratory irritation and plant damage; Mesosphere is the middle atmospheric layer above the stratosphere where meteors burn up, with negligible ozone concentration; Thermosphere is the uppermost low-density layer characterized by high temperatures and ionization, containing no ozone shield.
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