Ozone Basics
In which layer of the atmosphere is the ozone layer located?
Stratosphere
What is the primary energy source that drives ozone formation?
Ultraviolet Radiation from the Sun
What type of radiation causes ozone molecules to break down?
UV-Radiation
What does dynamic equilibrium mean in the context of ozone layer?
The rate of ozone formation is equal tot he rate of ozone decomposition.
What harmful rays does the ozone layer protect us from?
UV Rays
What happens to an oxygen molecule when it absorbs high-energy UV-radiation?
It splits into two oxygen atoms
What is released when ozone (O3) absorbs UV radiation?
An oxygen molecules (O2) and free oxygen atom (O)
Why is the ozone layer not getting thicker despite ongoing ozone formation?
The ozone breaks down at the same rate it is formed under normal conditions
What is the chemical formula of ozone?
O3
What do free oxygen atoms do after they are produced by UV radiation?
They react with O2 molecules to form ozone (O3)
What is the name of the chemical reaction when molecular oxygen and oxygen atoms are formed?
Photodissociation
What is the name of the unit used to meausre ozone concentration?
Dobson Unit (DU)
What is the name of the process by which ozone is formed in the stratosphere?
The Chapman Cycle
10-50km
O2 + UV --> O + O
O + O2 --> O3