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Multiple Choice
How did the formation of the ozone layer contribute to the existence of life on Earth?
A
It provided a source of energy for photosynthetic organisms.
B
It caused the Earth's temperature to decrease dramatically, leading to the first ice age.
C
It increased the concentration of oxygen in the oceans, enabling the evolution of aquatic life.
D
It protected organisms from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation, allowing life to thrive on land.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of the ozone layer: The ozone layer is a region of Earth's stratosphere that contains a high concentration of ozone (O₃). It plays a critical role in absorbing and blocking harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the Sun.
Recognize the impact of UV radiation: UV radiation can damage DNA and other cellular components, making it difficult for life to survive, especially on land where organisms are directly exposed to sunlight.
Explain how the ozone layer protects life: By absorbing UV radiation, the ozone layer reduces the amount of harmful radiation reaching Earth's surface, creating a safer environment for organisms to thrive, particularly on land.
Connect the formation of the ozone layer to the evolution of life: The development of the ozone layer allowed organisms to move from aquatic environments, where water provided some protection from UV radiation, to terrestrial environments, enabling the diversification of life on land.
Clarify why the correct answer is relevant: The statement 'It protected organisms from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation, allowing life to thrive on land' is correct because the ozone layer's protective function was essential for the survival and evolution of terrestrial life.