Question

Ozone is known to cause respiratory problems in humans and to damage plants. However, the ozone layer also protects Earth. Explain the locations ozone can be found, how ozone is helpful, how it is harmful, and what causes the depletion of the ozone layer.

Answer 1

The Ozone (O₃) is a layer present in the stratosphere of the atmosphere. It absorbs acts as a shield and protects us by absorbing the harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation coming from the sun. However, chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) are chemicals which are used in refrigerators, spray cans and fire extinguishers. When CFCs reach the stratosphere and exposed to UV radiation as a result chlorine is released, the chlorine reacts with the oxygen atoms in ozone and cause depletion of ozone layer.

Answer 2

Ozone is present in the stratosphere layer of earth's atmosphere, which is about 6 to 30 miles from the earth's surface.

It is very helpful as it protects the life on earth from the harmful ultraviolet rays that come from the sun.

It is harmful as well because when it is inhaled by humans it can damage the lungs and can cause various problems such as chest pain and respiratory diseases.

The ozone layer is depleted by the CFCs, as the UV rays of the sun breaks down the CFCs into chlorine atoms. These chlorine atoms react with ozone and deplete the ozone layer.