Question

What are frequencies of electromagnetic radiation absorbed by the earth's ozone layer?
A. Infrared light
B. Microwaves
C. Radio waves
D. Ultraviolet light

Answer 1

Hint: UV is a type of electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths ranging from \[10nm\] (with a frequency of roughly \[30\,PHz\] ) to \[400nm\left( {750\,THz} \right)\] , shorter than visible light but longer than X-rays. UV radiation is found in sunshine and accounts for around \[10\% \] of the Sun's total electromagnetic radiation output.

Complete step by step answer:
The ozone layer, also known as the ozone shield, is an area of the Earth's stratosphere that absorbs the majority of ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the Sun. In comparison to other sections of the atmosphere, it has significant ozone \[\left( {{O_3}} \right)\] concentrations.

Therefore, the correct option is D.

Additional information: Most people cannot see ultraviolet rays. The human lens blocks most radiation in the wavelength range of \[300-400{\text{ }}nm\] , while the cornea blocks shorter wavelengths. Color receptor adaptations for ultraviolet light are likewise absent in humans. Near-UV is sensitive to photoreceptors in the retina, and persons without a lens (a condition known as aphakia) view light as whitish-blue or whitish-violet.

Children and young adults may see ultraviolet down to wavelengths of roughly \[310{\text{ }}nm\] in some situations. Insects, some animals, and birds can see near-UV radiation. Small birds have a fourth colour receptor for ultraviolet wavelengths, which allows them to see in "real" UV light.

Note: It should be noted that the most dangerous UV-C rays are virtually completely absorbed by our atmosphere. Sunburn is caused by UV-B rays, which are damaging rays. In living beings, UV-B rays increase the risk of DNA and other cellular damage.