What is one of the most serious results of damage to the stratospheric ozone layer? (A) A) Increased acid rain (B) B) Increased rates of skin cancer in humans (C) C) Higher natural background radioactivity (D) D) Increased rates of asthma

One of the most serious results of damage to the stratospheric ozone layer is the increased rates of skin cancer in humans. The ozone layer acts as Earth's sunscreen, absorbing the majority of the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. When this layer is depleted, more UV rays reach the surface, raising the risk of skin cancers, including melanoma, which can be deadly. Additionally, the loss of the ozone layer can contribute to various other health issues, such as cataracts and weakened immune responses. It also affects ecosystems, especially marine life, where increased UV exposure can damage phytoplankton, the foundation of aquatic food chains, causing ripple effects in biodiversity and food sources for humans.