The Impact of Ozone Depletion and the Risk of UV Radiation in Australia

absorbed by ozone, so rarely causes damage to skin. not true in australia. shortest wavelength

Ozone is a molecule composed of three oxygen atoms and is present in the Earth’s stratosphere

Ozone is a molecule composed of three oxygen atoms and is present in the Earth’s stratosphere. It plays a crucial role in our atmosphere by absorbing a portion of the Sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation, particularly the shorter wavelengths known as UV-C and most UV-B. UV radiation is known to have harmful effects on living organisms, including humans, such as sunburns, premature skin aging, and an increased risk of skin cancer.

Typically, ozone absorbs most of the shorter wavelength UV radiation in the stratosphere, creating a protective layer that shields the Earth’s surface. As a result, the majority of these harmful UV rays are not able to reach and penetrate our skin, minimizing their damaging effects.

However, it is essential to note that ozone levels can vary geographically and temporally. One region where this variation is particularly significant is Australia. Due to a specific atmospheric phenomenon called the “ozone hole,” Australia experiences lower levels of ozone in its stratosphere compared to other parts of the world.

The ozone hole, primarily occurring over Antarctica during the Southern Hemisphere’s spring months (September to November), leads to a reduction in ozone concentration over Australia. This reduction allows additional harmful UV radiation, including shorter wavelengths, to pass through the atmosphere and reach the surface.

As a result, Australia is known for having higher levels of UV radiation, including UV-B and UV-C, reaching the ground. These shorter wavelength UV rays have a higher energy level and pose a more significant risk of skin damage compared to longer wavelength UV-A rays.

Therefore, the statement that shorter wavelength UV radiation is absorbed by ozone, so rarely causes damage to the skin, is generally true for most regions, thanks to the protective function of ozone. However, this is not the case in Australia due to the presence of the ozone hole, which allows more of the shorter wavelength UV radiation to reach the surface and potentially cause skin damage.

More Answers: