Which statement represent the harmful effect of depletion of earth's ozone layer

Options

A. the average temperature of earth's surface will increase gradually
B. the oxygen content of the atmosphere will decrease
C. increased amount of ultraviolet radiation will reach earth's surface
D. sea levels will rise as the polar ice caps will gradually melt

Answer

To determine which statement represents the harmful effect of the depletion of Earth's ozone layer, we need to analyze each option provided in the question.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding the Ozone Layer**: The ozone layer is a region of Earth's stratosphere that absorbs most of the Sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Its depletion leads to an increase in the amount of UV radiation that reaches the Earth's surface.

2. **Analyzing Each Option**:
- **Option 1**: "The average temperature of Earth's surface will increase gradually."
- This statement relates to global warming rather than the depletion of the ozone layer. While global warming can lead to an increase in temperature, it is not a direct effect of ozone layer depletion.

- **Option 2**: "The oxygen content of the atmosphere will decrease."
- This statement is also linked to global warming. If global warming affects plant life, it could lead to a decrease in oxygen production, but it does not directly relate to ozone layer depletion.

- **Option 3**: "The increased amount of UV radiation will reach Earth's surface."
- This statement is directly related to the depletion of the ozone layer. As the ozone layer thins, more UV radiation penetrates the atmosphere, which can lead to serious health issues, including skin cancer and other mutations.

- **Option 4**: "Sea level will rise."
- This statement is associated with global warming due to melting ice caps and glaciers. While it is a significant environmental issue, it is not a direct consequence of ozone layer depletion.

3. **Conclusion**: After analyzing all options, the correct answer is **Option 3**: "Increased amount of ultraviolet radiation will reach Earth's surface." This statement accurately reflects the harmful effect of the depletion of the ozone layer.