UV Radiation and its Effects:

UV radiation, or ultraviolet radiation, is a type of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the sun. It is divided into three categories: UVA, UVB, and UVC. While UVC is absorbed by the Earth's atmosphere and does not reach the surface, UVA and UVB radiation can have various effects on living organisms.

I. Skin cancer in humans:
UV radiation is a well-known risk factor for the development of skin cancer in humans. Prolonged exposure to UVA and UVB rays can cause damage to the DNA in skin cells, leading to mutations that can eventually result in skin cancer. UVB rays are particularly associated with the development of basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.

II. Lower production of phytoplankton:
Phytoplankton are microscopic marine plants that play a crucial role in the Earth's ecosystem. They are the primary producers of oxygen, contribute to the carbon cycle, and form the basis of the marine food web. UV radiation can inhibit the growth and productivity of phytoplankton. It damages their DNA, disrupts photosynthesis, and affects their overall fitness, leading to a decrease in their abundance and productivity.

III. Influence the growth of terrestrial plants:
UV radiation also affects the growth and development of terrestrial plants. While plants need sunlight to undergo photosynthesis and grow, excessive UV radiation can be harmful. It can cause damage to plant tissues, reduce chlorophyll content, disrupt photosynthetic processes, and affect plant metabolism. These effects can result in stunted growth, decreased biomass, and reduced crop yields.

IV. Decrease in cattle production:
UV radiation can have adverse effects on cattle production as well. Cattle exposed to high levels of UV radiation can develop sunburns, skin lesions, and eye problems. These conditions can cause discomfort, reduce feed intake, and hinder overall growth and productivity. Additionally, UV radiation can also damage grass and forage crops, which are essential food sources for cattle, further impacting their production.

Conclusion:
In summary, UV radiation is responsible for various harmful effects on living organisms. It can lead to skin cancer in humans, lower production of phytoplankton, influence the growth of terrestrial plants, and decrease cattle production. Understanding these impacts is important for implementing appropriate measures to protect and mitigate the harmful effects of UV radiation on both human and environmental health.

UV radiation and its effects:


UV radiation, a type of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the sun, can have various effects on living organisms. Let's analyze each option and determine which effects are influenced by UV radiation.
(i) Skin cancer in humans:
- UV radiation can damage the DNA in skin cells, leading to mutations and eventual development of skin cancer.
- This effect is well-documented and supported by scientific research.
- Therefore, UV radiation is responsible for the occurrence of skin cancer in humans.
(ii) Lower production of phytoplankton:
- Phytoplankton are microscopic organisms that play a crucial role in the marine ecosystem by producing oxygen and serving as a food source for other organisms.
- UV radiation can harm phytoplankton, inhibiting their growth and productivity.
- This can have negative consequences for the marine food chain and overall ecosystem health.
- Therefore, UV radiation is responsible for the lower production of phytoplankton.
(iii) Influence the growth of terrestrial plants:
- Terrestrial plants can be directly affected by UV radiation.
- High levels of UV radiation can damage plant tissues, leading to reduced photosynthesis and growth.
- This can have implications for agricultural productivity and ecosystem dynamics.
- Therefore, UV radiation can influence the growth of terrestrial plants.
(iv) Decrease in cattle production:
- UV radiation can indirectly impact cattle production through its effect on forage availability.
- UV radiation can damage plants that serve as forage for cattle, leading to reduced grazing options and consequently, decreased cattle production.
- Therefore, UV radiation can contribute to a decrease in cattle production.
Conclusion:
Considering the analysis of each option, it is evident that UV radiation is responsible for:
- Skin cancer in humans (option i)
- Lower production of phytoplankton (option ii)
- Influence on the growth of terrestrial plants (option iii)
Hence, the correct answer is option C: I, II, III.