Ozone depletion increases exposure to ultraviolet radiation for crops.

Ozone depletion increases exposure to ultraviolet radiation for crops.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Only at high latitudes
• D. Only during winter

Answer: (A)

Ozone acts as a shield that absorbs most UV-B radiation from the sun. When ozone is depleted, less UV-B is filtered out, so more of it reaches the Earth's surface. UV-B is particularly harmful to plants because it can damage leaf cells and disrupt photosynthesis, leading to slower growth, sunburn-like damage on leaves, and lower crop yields. Because the depletion reduces this protective layer, crops experience higher UV exposure across broader regions and seasons, not just at high latitudes or in winter. So the statement is true: ozone depletion increases exposure to ultraviolet radiation for crops.

Ozone acts as a shield that absorbs most UV-B radiation from the sun. When ozone is depleted, less UV-B is filtered out, so more of it reaches the Earth's surface. UV-B is particularly harmful to plants because it can damage leaf cells and disrupt photosynthesis, leading to slower growth, sunburn-like damage on leaves, and lower crop yields. Because the depletion reduces this protective layer, crops experience higher UV exposure across broader regions and seasons, not just at high latitudes or in winter. So the statement is true: ozone depletion increases exposure to ultraviolet radiation for crops.