The stratospheric ozone's primary function is to absorb ultraviolet radiation from the sun.

The stratospheric ozone's primary function is to absorb ultraviolet radiation from the sun.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. It absorbs infrared radiation
• D. It transmits UV radiation

Answer: (A)

Ozone in the stratosphere acts as a natural sunscreen, absorbing most of the sun’s ultraviolet radiation, especially the more energetic UV-B and UV-C rays. This shielding greatly reduces the amount of harmful UV that reaches Earth’s surface, protecting living organisms from DNA damage and related health risks. The mechanism involves UV light breaking apart ozone into oxygen and then reforming it, maintaining the ozone layer through a cycle. Because of this primary role, the statement is true. Absorbing infrared radiation or transmitting UV radiation are not the main functions of the stratospheric ozone.

Ozone in the stratosphere acts as a natural sunscreen, absorbing most of the sun’s ultraviolet radiation, especially the more energetic UV-B and UV-C rays. This shielding greatly reduces the amount of harmful UV that reaches Earth’s surface, protecting living organisms from DNA damage and related health risks. The mechanism involves UV light breaking apart ozone into oxygen and then reforming it, maintaining the ozone layer through a cycle. Because of this primary role, the statement is true. Absorbing infrared radiation or transmitting UV radiation are not the main functions of the stratospheric ozone.