Ozone layer in our atmosphere protects us from which of the following rays?

Ultraviolet rays

The correct answer is option 3. Ultraviolet rays.

The ozone layer in Earth's atmosphere plays a crucial role in protecting life on the planet by absorbing the majority of the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. UV rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation with shorter wavelengths than visible light. There are three main types of UV rays: UVA, UVB, and UVC.

The ozone layer, located in the stratosphere, contains a high concentration of ozone \((O_3)\) molecules. These ozone molecules absorb and block the majority of the sun's harmful UV-B and UV-C rays, preventing them from reaching the Earth's surface. UV-A rays have longer wavelengths and are less harmful, but they are also partially absorbed by the ozone layer.

If the ozone layer is depleted, more UV radiation would reach the Earth's surface, posing serious threats to living organisms. Overexposure to UV radiation is associated with various health risks, including skin cancer, cataracts, and immune system suppression in humans. Additionally, UV radiation can have harmful effects on ecosystems, including damage to marine life and disruptions in the growth and development of plants.

Efforts to protect the ozone layer have been made through international agreements such as the Montreal Protocol, which aims to phase out the production and consumption of ozone-depleting substances. These efforts have contributed to the gradual recovery of the ozone layer over time.