MCQ Detailed View

The stratosphere is the second layer of Earth’s atmosphere, extending from approximately 12 km to 50 km above the surface. A key feature of the stratosphere is the ozone layer, which absorbs most of the Sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation. UV radiation has high energy and can be harmful to living organisms, causing skin cancer, eye damage, and genetic mutations. By absorbing UV rays, the stratosphere protects life on Earth and maintains atmospheric stability.

The ozone molecules in the stratosphere capture UV-B and UV-C radiation, converting it into heat. This absorption slightly warms the stratosphere and prevents dangerous radiation from reaching the surface. The troposphere, the lowest atmospheric layer, contains most of the air mass and weather phenomena but does not absorb significant UV radiation. The mesosphere and ionosphere are higher layers, with other functions such as meteor burning and radio communication, but they do not provide primary UV protection.

Understanding this protective function is crucial in environmental science and climate studies. Human activities, like releasing chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), can deplete ozone, reducing the stratosphere’s ability to absorb UV radiation. This can lead to an increase in harmful UV reaching Earth, highlighting the importance of protecting the ozone layer.

The stratosphere’s absorption of ultraviolet radiation ensures that only a safe portion of the Sun’s energy reaches the surface. This makes it essential for life sustainability, ecological balance, and planetary safety. Studying the stratosphere and its ozone layer helps students and scientists understand the Earth’s natural defense against solar radiation and the importance of atmospheric layers in global environmental health.