Microorganisms likely did not inhabit Earth's surface until
A) aquatic life brought them onto land.
B) the ozone layer was made.
C) phototrophy evolved.
D) chemoorganotrophy developed.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The ozone layer plays a crucial role in protecting life on Earth from harmful ultraviolet radiation. Before the formation of the ozone layer, it is unlikely that microorganisms could have survived on the surface of the Earth. Therefore, the formation of the ozone layer was a prerequisite for the emergence of surface-dwelling microorganisms.

Microorganisms Likely Did Not Inhabit Earth's Surface Until