Question

The ozone layer of earth's atmosphere helps to filter UV radiation. As the ozone layer is depleted, more UV radiation reaches earth's surface. This increase in ultraviolet radiation may be harmful because it can directly cause
A) mutations in the DNA of organisms
B)abnormal migration patterns in waterfowl
C) photosynthesis to stop in all marine organisms
D) sterility in most species of mammals and birds

Answer 1

Answer is "A".

UV has high frequency and hence it has high energy. It can cause mutations in our DNA. It can change the DNA shape and also the code of the DNA. Those mutations can lead to cancer. Most abundant cancer type is skin cancers. Other than cancers, UV rays can cause premature aging of skin, eye damage, skin burning and suppression of the immunity.