Question
Explain how is ozone formed? State the significance of ozone layer.

Answer

  • Ozone layer is located at the higher levels of the atmosphere, i.e., in stratosphere.
  • Ozone is formed by the action of $UV$ (Ultra violet) radiation on oxygen ($O_2$) molecule.
  • The higher energy of $UV$ radiation convert some oxygen ($O_2$) molecules into free oxygen $(O)$ atoms.
  • These free oxygen atoms combine with the molecular oxygen and form a molecule of ozone ($O_3$).
  • $O _2 \xrightarrow[Photodissociation]{\text { UV }} OV + O$
  • Significance:
  • Ozone shields the surface of the earth from ultraviolet $(UV)$ radiation from the sun.
  • The ozone molecules absorb short wave-length $UV$ rays which are harmful to organisms.
  • Thus, it protects life on the earth.

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