The Ozone Layer

The ozone layer, or ozone shield, is a deep layer in the stratosphere, encompassing the Earth. Containing large amounts of ozone, it is a form of oxygen consisting of 3 oxygen atoms (trioxygen) rather than 2 (dioxygen). The layer acts as a filter for the shorter wavelengths and UVR emitted from the sun; protecting Earth and its inhabitants from the hazardous effects. There is an inverse relationship between the stratospheric ozone and solar UVR when the sky is clear. Surprisingly, it is this ultraviolet radiation that forms the ozone. The layer is depleted in two ways. In the mid-latitude (for instance over Australia) is thinned, leading to more UVR reaching the earth in those regions.

Fun Fact! - The fresh smell outside (especially after a thunderstorm) is caused by the ozone layer

Ozone

Nedbrytning av ozonlaget