Question

    From the given options, select the one that CANNOT be listed among the long-run effects of ozone depletion.

    A Reduced growth of terrestrial plants Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    B Skin cancer Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    C Increased amount of oxygen consumption in human beings Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    D Lowered production of aquatic animals Correct Answer Incorrect Answer

    Solution

    The long-run effects of ozone depletion are:- Effects on Human Health Ozone layer depletion increases the amount of UVB (ultraviolet B- rays) that reaches the Earth's surface. UVB causes non-melanoma skin cancer and plays a major role in malignant melanoma development. In addition, UVB has been linked to the development of cataracts, a clouding of the eye's lens. Effects on Plants UVB radiation affects the physiological and developmental processes of plants. It also affects nutrient distribution within the plant, the timing of developmental phases, and secondary metabolism. Effects on Marine Ecosystems UVB radiation has been found to cause damage to the early developmental stages of fish, shrimp, crabs, amphibians, and other marine animals. The most severe effects are decreased reproductive capacity and impaired larval development. Effects on Biogeochemical cycles Increases in UVB radiation could affect terrestrial and aquatic biogeochemical cycles. Effects on Materials Synthetic polymers, naturally occurring biopolymers, as well as some other materials of commercial interest are adversely affected by UVB radiation.

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