Explanation:

The Earth's atmosphere contains several layers, each with distinct properties and roles in protecting life on the surface. \nA. Infra red rays: Infrared (IR) radiation is a form of electromagnetic radiation with longer wavelengths than visible light. While some IR radiation is absorbed by the Earth's atmosphere, primarily by greenhouse gases like water vapor ($\text{H}_2\text{O}$), carbon dioxide ($\text{CO}_2$), and methane ($\text{CH}_4$) in the troposphere (the lowest layer of the atmosphere), the ozone layer (located in the stratosphere) does not play a significant role in shielding the Earth's surface from IR rays. IR absorption contributes to the greenhouse effect. \nB. UV rays: This is the correct answer. The ozone layer, a region in the Earth's stratosphere, is crucial for absorbing most of the Sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation, particularly UV-B and UV-C wavelengths. Ozone molecules ($\text{O}_3$) efficiently absorb these high-energy photons, preventing them from reaching the Earth's surface. This protection is vital for life, as excessive UV radiation can cause DNA damage, skin cancer, cataracts, and harm to ecosystems. \nC. X rays: X-rays are high-energy electromagnetic radiation. Most X-rays from space are absorbed by the Earth's upper atmosphere, specifically the ionosphere and mesosphere, at altitudes much higher than the ozone layer. They are largely attenuated before reaching the stratosphere or the Earth's surface. \nD. Gamma rays: Gamma rays are the highest-energy form of electromagnetic radiation. Similar to X-rays, they are primarily absorbed by the Earth's uppermost atmosphere (thermosphere and exosphere) and do not penetrate to the lower atmosphere or the surface in significant amounts. The ozone layer has no primary role in shielding against gamma rays.