Question

Ozone is a gas composed of three atoms of oxygen (O3). Ozone occurs both in the Earth's upper atmosphere and at ground level. Stratospheric ozone, is considered good ozone and occurs naturally in the upper atmosphere, where it forms a protective layer that shields us from the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays. Tropospheric, or ground level ozone, is not emitted directly into the air, but is created by chemical reactions between oxides of nitrogen (NOx) and volatile organic compounds. This happens when pollutants emitted by cars, power plants, chemical plants, and other sources chemically react in the presence of sunlight. Ozone at ground level is the main ingredient in smog.

Children are at greatest risk from exposure to ozone because their lungs are still developing and they are more likely to be active outdoors when ozone levels are high, which increases their exposure. Because of this, we would expect these children to be more likely to develop what respiratory condition?

A) COPD
B) Asthma
C) Emphysema
D) Lung cancer

Answer 1

Children are at greatest risk from exposure to ozone because their lungs are still developing and they are more likely to be active outdoors when ozone levels are high, which increases their exposure. Children are also more likely than adults to have asthma.

So. The answer is Option B