<ul><li>A nearby supernova can cause mass extinction by breaking up the ozone layer on Earth, leaving it vulnerable to ultraviolet radiation from the Sun.</li><li>The dangerous outputs of a supernova, such as X-rays and gamma rays, can tear apart molecules and cause the formation of nitrogen oxides, including nitrous oxide (laughing gas).</li><li>Without the ozone layer, photosynthetic microorganisms like algae become vulnerable, leading to ecosystem collapse and a mass extinction.</li><li>However, there are no known supernova candidates within 30 light years of Earth, providing a relief from the potential danger.</li></ul>

Can any nearby supernova cause a mass extinction

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