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Ozone

Definition:

Ozone is a form of oxygen having the molecular form of O3. It is a bluish, unstable gas with a pungent odour, found in two parts of the atmosphere: the stratosphere and the troposphere.

The ozone layer: The stratosphere contains a layer in which the concentration of ozone is greatest, the so called ozone layer. The layer extends from about 12 to 40 km. It shields the Earth from ultraviolet radiation's harmful health effects on humans and the environment. This layer is being depleted by human emissions of chlorine- and bromine-containing compounds.

Ground-level ozone: At ground level (in the troposphere), ozone is considered an air pollutant that can seriously affect the human respiratory system. It is a chemical oxidant and a major component of photochemical smog.

Source: GreenFacts

More:

The ozone layer completely absorbs UVC radiation and attenuates UVB radiation from the sun. It has no significant effect on solar UVA.

Ozone is also used in water treatment, see ozone-biofiltration

Source: GreenFacts

Related words:

Aldehyde(s) - Bromate - Bromide - Disinfectant(s) - Ozone biofiltration - Primary & Secondary pollutant - Ultraviolet radiation

To read about this term in context:

GreenFacts Summary on Air Pollution Ozone

Translation(s):

Deutsch: Ozon
Español: Ozono
Français: Ozone

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