Final answer:
The ozone layer, which contains ozone (O3), protects Earth by absorbing most of the sun's harmful ultraviolet radiation, particularly UVB rays that can cause skin cancer and other biological damage.
Step-by-step explanation:
The ozone layer protects the Earth primarily from ultraviolet radiation from the sun. This layer, which contains ozone (O3), lies within the stratosphere and absorbs a significant portion of the sun's harmful UV radiation, including UVB and UVC rays, preventing them from reaching the Earth's surface. This protection is crucial for the well-being of living organisms as excessive exposure to UV radiation can lead to various harmful effects, including skin cancer and damage to the DNA of living cells.
UVB radiation is known for its detrimental effects on biological organisms, leading to skin cancers, cataracts, and damage to crops and marine life. A depletion in the ozone layer allows more UV radiation to reach the Earth, increasing the risk of these adverse effects.