Скачать или смотреть Stratospheric ozone (ozone layer( And Ground level ozone Bad ozone _- Difference between

Ozone: The Good vs. The Bad

Ozone (O₃) is a molecule made of three oxygen atoms, but its impact on life depends entirely on where it’s found in the atmosphere. Let’s break down the difference between stratospheric ozone (the “good” ozone) and ground-level ozone (the “bad” ozone):

🛡️ Stratospheric Ozone – The “Ozone Layer”
Location: Found in the stratosphere, about 10 to 50 km above Earth’s surface.

Function: Acts as a protective shield, absorbing the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

Importance:

Prevents skin cancer, cataracts, and immune system suppression.

Protects ecosystems and agriculture.

Threats:

Damaged by chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and other ozone-depleting substances.

Led to the formation of the ozone hole, especially over Antarctica.

Recovery: International efforts like the Montreal Protocol have helped reduce ozone-depleting emissions, allowing gradual healing.

🚫 Ground-Level Ozone – The “Bad” Ozone
Location: Found in the troposphere, the lowest layer of the atmosphere where we live.

Formation: Created by chemical reactions between nitrogen oxides (NOₓ) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the presence of sunlight.

Sources:

Vehicle exhaust

Industrial emissions

Gasoline vapors and chemical solvents

Health Effects:

Irritates lungs and airways

Worsens asthma and respiratory diseases

Particularly harmful to children, the elderly, and outdoor workers

Environmental Impact:

Damages crops and forests

Reduces agricultural productivity

Contributes to smog formation

⚖️ Quick Comparison
Feature Stratospheric Ozone 🌈 Ground-Level Ozone ☠️
Location 10–50 km above Earth Near Earth's surface
Role Protects from UV rays Harmful pollutant
Formation Natural (UV + O₂) Chemical reactions (NOₓ + VOCs + sunlight)
Impact on Health Protective Respiratory irritant
Environmental Effect Shields ecosystems Damages vegetation

#Stratosphere