What is Ozone
How ozone is formed
The basic oxygen molecule (O2) contains two oxygen molecules. When another oxygen molecule is added, it makes an unstable and highly reactive gas which is called Ozone.
Where ozone is available in the atmosphere
In Earth's atmosphere, ozone is available in both the upper atmosphere and at ground level.
Interestingly ozone in the upper atmosphere protects living beings on Earth. Because ozone can filter out damaging ultraviolet radiation from the sun. But the ozone at ground level has severe effects on our health.
Do you know?
The ozone in the stratosphere (upper atmosphere) is gradually being destroyed by ozone-depleting substances.
The man-made chemicals such as
- Chlorofluorocarbons
- Hydrochlorofluorocarbons
- Halons are ozone-depleting substances.
Why do people use these harmful substances?
These were either formerly used or sometimes are used still.
Where ozone-depleting substances are used?
- Coolants
- Foaming agents
- Fire extinguishers
- Solvents
- Pesticides
- Aerosol propellants
An increased amounts of UV radiation reach the Earth when the protective ozone layer starts thinning.
This can lead to more issues like
- Skin cancer
- Cataracts
- Impaired immune systems.
UV can also damage sensitive crops(soybeans), and crop yields can be reduced.
Is ozone an air pollutant
Ozone is an air pollutant that can travel a long distance and facilitates accumulation in high concentrations far away from the source. During summer months and in the afternoon and early evening of the day, the ground level ozone formation is higher.
Ground-level ozone behaves as the main component of the smog. Emissions from sources like motor vehicles and industries interact with sunlight and form ozone at the ground level.
Potential health effects from exposure to ozone
Even at low levels, ozone has been identified as harmful to human health.
- Your eyes, nose, throat, and lower airways can be irritated and inflamed. Then you will experience a cough and soreness. There will be scratches in your throat.
- You will be unable to deeply or vigorously breathe in a way that you were doing previously due to the reduced lung function.
- Asthma and chronic respiratory diseases (like chronic bronchitis) can be exacerbated.
- Your susceptibility to respiratory infections can be increased.