Question

sy 25 - 26 ees unit 1 astronomy
a team of researchers is studying how different types of light are blocked or allowed to pass through earths atmosphere. they observe that a certain type of light is largely absorbed by the ozone layer, while others are blocked by earths magnetic field.
which type of light is primarily blocked by the ozone layer, and what how does this affect life on earth?
gamma radiation, which if unblocked, would increase the rate of genetic mutations in living organisms.
infrared radiation, which if unblocked, would significantly increase earths surface temperatures.
ultraviolet light, which if unblocked, would lead to increased skin cancer and harm to aquatic ecosystems.
visible light, which if unblocked, would reduce earths ability to sustain photosynthesis.

Explanation:

The ozone layer primarily blocks ultraviolet (UV) light. Exposure to excessive UV - light can cause increased skin cancer in humans and harm to aquatic ecosystems as it can damage organisms and disrupt food - webs. Gamma radiation is mostly blocked by the atmosphere and magnetic field, not mainly by the ozone layer. Infrared radiation is related to the greenhouse effect and is not primarily blocked by the ozone layer. Visible light is essential for photosynthesis and is not blocked by the ozone layer.

Answer:

Ultraviolet light, which if unblocked, would lead to increased skin cancer and harm to aquatic ecosystems.