What is the main component of the ozone layer?

The main component of the ozone layer is ozone, which is a molecule comprised of three oxygen atoms (O₃). This layer is located in the stratosphere and serves as a crucial barrier that absorbs the majority of the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. By filtering out these UV rays, the ozone layer plays a vital role in protecting life on Earth, particularly in safeguarding human health, as excessive exposure to UV radiation can lead to skin cancer and other health issues.

Ozone’s unique properties allow it to absorb UV radiation effectively, which is why its presence in the stratosphere is so essential. Other options, such as oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide, do not have the same protective properties against UV radiation and thus do not serve the same critical role as ozone in the atmosphere.