Question

Which layer of the atmosphere contains the ozone layer? A. exosphere B. mesosphere C. stratosphere D. troposphere

Short answer

The ozone layer is in the stratosphere.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the Question

We are asked to identify in which layer of the atmosphere the ozone layer is found. The ozone layer plays a crucial role in absorbing the majority of the sun's harmful ultraviolet radiation.

Reviewing Atmosphere Layers

The atmosphere consists of different layers: 1. Troposphere - The closest to Earth's surface, where weather occurs. 2. Stratosphere - Above the troposphere, containing the ozone layer. 3. Mesosphere - Above the stratosphere, where meteors burn. 4. Exosphere - The uppermost layer thinning out into space.

Identifying the Correct Answer

From our review, the stratosphere is identified as the layer containing the ozone layer. The key characteristic of the stratosphere is the presence of the ozone layer, which absorbs ultraviolet radiation, protecting life on Earth.

Key concepts

Ozone Layer

The ozone layer is a vital part of Earth's atmosphere. It plays a crucial role in protecting living organisms by absorbing harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Without the ozone layer, life on Earth would be exposed to higher levels of UV radiation, which can cause skin cancer, cataracts, and damage to various forms of life.

• The ozone layer is made up of ozone (O₃) molecules.
• These molecules are concentrated primarily between 15 and 35 kilometers above Earth's surface.
• They are most abundant in the layer known as the stratosphere.

Understanding the significance of the ozone layer helps us appreciate the need to protect it from pollutants, such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), which can deplete ozone molecules and reduce the layer's effectiveness.

Stratosphere

The stratosphere is the second layer of Earth's atmosphere, sitting directly above the troposphere and below the mesosphere. This layer ranges from about 10 to 50 kilometers above the Earth's surface.

• One remarkable feature of the stratosphere is that, unlike the troposphere, the air becomes warmer with altitude.
• This temperature increase is due to the presence of the ozone layer, which absorbs and scatters ultraviolet solar radiation.
• The stratosphere contains little water vapor, making it relatively dry compared to the troposphere.

Commercial airplanes often fly in the lower stratosphere to avoid weather-related turbulence, as this layer is free from clouds and weather disturbances. The characteristics of the stratosphere make it a unique and stable part of our atmosphere.

Ultraviolet Radiation Absorption

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a type of energy emitted by the sun. While some levels of UV radiation are essential for human health, excessive exposure can lead to health problems and environmental damage.

• The ozone layer in the stratosphere is the primary defense against the most dangerous types of UV radiation, namely UV-B and UV-C.
• Ozone molecules absorb UV-B radiation effectively, thereby protecting living beings from potential harm.
• UV-C is almost completely absorbed before it reaches the Earth’s surface.

The absorption of UV radiation by the ozone layer is crucial for maintaining the balance of certain ecological systems and for reducing the risk factors associated with prolonged UV exposure for humans. This absorption minimizes the detrimental effects on health and the environment.