Скачать или смотреть The ozone Layer; What Is the Ozone Layer, How Does It Work, Ozone Layer Depletion

The Ozone Layer: Earth’s Invisible Shield

The ozone layer is a region in the stratosphere, roughly 15 to 35 kilometers above Earth’s surface, that contains a high concentration of ozone molecules (O₃). Though it makes up only a tiny fraction of the atmosphere, its role is monumental—it absorbs 97–99% of the Sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation, protecting life on Earth from DNA damage, skin cancer, cataracts, and ecosystem disruption.

🌞 How It Works
Formation: UV light splits oxygen molecules (O₂) into single atoms, which then combine with other O₂ molecules to form ozone (O₃).

Destruction: Ozone also breaks down when it absorbs UV light, forming O₂ again. This dynamic cycle maintains a stable ozone concentration—until disrupted by human activity.

🧪 Threats to the Ozone Layer
Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and halons, once used in refrigerants and aerosols, release chlorine and bromine atoms when broken down by UV light.

These atoms catalyze the destruction of ozone molecules, leading to ozone depletion.

The most dramatic example is the Antarctic ozone hole, which peaks during Southern Hemisphere spring.

🌍 Global Response & Recovery
The Montreal Protocol (1987) is a landmark international treaty that phased out ozone-depleting substances.

Thanks to global cooperation, the ozone layer is gradually recovering, with projections suggesting full restoration by mid-century in many regions.

⚠️ Emerging Concerns
Interestingly, recent studies show that as the ozone layer heals, it may also contribute to global warming. Ozone acts as a greenhouse gas, and its recovery could trap more heat in the atmosphere—potentially causing 40% more warming than previously predicted by 20503.

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