Which substance in the Earth's atmosphere absorbs most of the ultraviolet rays from the Sun?

• A. Oxygen (O2)
• B. Carbon dioxide (CO2)
• C. Ozone (O3)
• D. Nitrogen (N2)

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the Earth's atmosphere contains several gases, each with different abilities to absorb solar radiation, including ultraviolet (UV) rays.
2. Recall that ultraviolet rays are high-energy radiation from the Sun that can be harmful to living organisms if not filtered properly.
3. Identify the key atmospheric gases listed: Oxygen (O2), Carbon dioxide (CO2), Nitrogen (N2), and Ozone (O3).
4. Know that Ozone (O3) is a molecule composed of three oxygen atoms and is primarily found in the stratosphere, forming the ozone layer.
5. Recognize that the ozone layer absorbs the majority of the Sun's harmful ultraviolet radiation, protecting life on Earth, which is why Ozone (O3) is the substance that absorbs most UV rays.