Question

Explain how the ozone layer forms? And the consequences of the destruction of the ozon layer.

Answer 1

• Basically elemental oxygen is found in the form of a diatomic molecule.
• When high-energy ultraviolet rays (UV) strikes diatomic oxygen molecule (O2), they split the molecule into two single oxygen atoms, known as atomic oxygen. A freed oxygen atom then combines with another oxygen molecule to form a molecule of ozone (O3).
• O2 + UV » O + O
• O2 + O » O3
• Like this the ozone layer is formed.

• Ozone performs an essential function by absorbing harmful radiations from the Sun.
• This prevents the harmful UV rays from reaching the surface of the Earth where they may damage many life forms.
• Recently, the ozone layer was getting depleted due to various man-made compounds like CFCs (chlorofluorocarbons).
• When these compounds reached the ozone layer, they react with ozone molecules.
• It results in the reduction of the ozone layer.
• The consequences of the destruction of the ozone layer is devastating.
• UV rays could find its ways to reach the surface of the earth.
• Not only the temperature of the earth will increase for this, but it will also cause many diseases like skin diseases and also cancer.

Hope you could get an idea from here.

Doubt clarification - use comment section.

Answer 2

Step-by-step explanation:

The atmospheric oxygen first combines with UV light of the sun and splits to form single atoms of oxygen.

- These single atom oxygen combines with atmospheric oxygen to form O3 molecules i.e. Ozone

O2 + UV -> O + O

O2 +O -> O3 (Ozone)

Overall reaction: 3O2 ---sunlight-----> 2O3

This forms a thin layer around earth's surface and protects the earth from harmful radiations from the sun.

Consequence of destruction of ozone layer-

Ozone layer is rapidly being depleted by the presence of pollutants in the atmosphere.

As a result there will be less protection from the harmful UV light of the sun.

UVB causes diseases like skin cancer and development of malignant meloma. In addition, UVB has been associated to the formation of cataracts, a clouding of the eye’s lens.