Question

How does the atmosphere act as a protective blanket? Mention the harmful effects of the ultraviolet rays?

Answer 1

Atmosphere is the transparent gaseous blanket that envelops the earth and supports and protects life. It serves as an essential life-supporting system by providing oxygen, Carbon dioxide, and nitrogen. Its ozone layer protects life from the harmful effects of solar and cosmic radiations.

Complete answer:
The atmosphere of Earth is the layer of gases, and these gases wrap the earth. The atmosphere prevents the sudden increase in temperature during the daylight hours and during the night. it slows down the escape of heat into the outer- space at night. It keeps the average temperature of the earth fairly constant during the day. Carbon-dioxide and water vapors trap the heat and regulate the temperature of the earth by keeping it ambient by absorbing heat rays during the day and by reflecting the heat trapped during daytime at night. Ozone absorbs harmful UV radiation coming from the sun. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a form of electromagnetic radiation that comes from the sun and man- made sources. Exposure to UV rays can cause premature aging of the skin. It can cause the signs of sun damage such as wrinkles, leathery skin, liver spots, etc. UV rays can also cause eye problems. They can harm or burn cornea. Most skin cancers are a result of exposure to the UV rays in sunlight.

Additional Information:
- Air pollution or atmospheric pollution is the contamination of atmospheric air with undesirable, harmful, or toxic substances, making it noxious and harmful to organisms and materials.
- It involves an abnormal qualitative or quantitative change in composition of atmospheric air.
- Air pollution is most severe in cities, industrial belts and densely populated areas.

Note:
- Air pollution affects human health and welfare in several ways. It causes serious health hazards in man.
- Causes harmful mutations, congenital abnormalities and inborn diseases.
- Causes unfavorable climatic changes by abnormally influencing humidity, temperature, cloud formation, precipitation, etc.