Question

Holes in Earth’s ozone layer may increase the amount of radiation that reaches the surface of the ocean. If this radiation affects the growth of phytoplankton, what do you think the long-term consequences would be for Earth’s atmosphere? Explain your answer.

Answer 1

The long-term consequences of increased radiation affecting the growth of phytoplankton due to holes in the ozone layer can disrupt the ocean food web and have implications for climate change.

Step-by-step explanation:

The depletion of the Earth's ozone layer and the increase in radiation reaching the surface of the ocean can have significant long-term consequences for the atmosphere. One of the main impacts is the effect on the growth of phytoplankton, which are the base of the oceanic food chain.

If phytoplankton are affected by increased radiation, it can lead to a decline in their population, which in turn can disrupt the entire ocean food web. Additionally, phytoplankton play a crucial role in regulating carbon dioxide levels and producing oxygen, so their decline can have implications for climate change as well.