What Is the ozone layer?
The Ozone Layer is the layer of O3 molecules that covers Earth and protects its surface from harmful radiation from the sun. The Ozone is within the stratosphere of the Earth's Atmosphere. The image (left) show the different layers of the atmosphere and how far each section is from the Earth's surface. The troposphere consist of small amounts O3 molecules, while the stratosphere contains most of the O3 molecules. The troposphere is 0 to 10 km away from the Earth's surface, while the stratosphere is 10 to 50 km away from the Earth's surface. With these different temperatures within these layers, the O3 molecules react differently to other chemicals.
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Why is it important?
These O3 molecules (left) help contain the heat being produced from the surface. This plays an important role on keeping life on Earth flourishing. This layer also protects the surface from the harmful UV radiation produced by the sun. Many experimental studies of plants and animals and clinical studies of humans have shown the harmful effects of excessive exposure to UV-B radiation (Science...). Because Ozone reacts strongly with other molecules, high levels of ozone are toxic to living systems (Science...). These toxins affect crop production, forest growth, and human health in a whole. The help form this layer protects and keeps the heat within the atmosphere of Earth.
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Footnote:
These paragraphs relate to what the Ozone is and why it is important to the life on Earth. It shows what exactly is the Ozone layer and what it does for life. Without this layer being above the troposphere, the amount of O3 molecules would not withstand the radiation from the sun. If the radiation would get to the surface, then the crop, forest and human health will be affected dramatically. Although the Ozone is still solid, the radiation can still get through.
work cited:
"Ozone Layer | Climate Education Modules for K-12." 2015. 19 May. 2016 <http://climate.ncsu.edu/edu/k12/.ozonelayer>
"O3 Stock Photos, Images, & Pictures | Shutterstock." 2009. 19 May. 2016 <http://www.shutterstock.com/s/o3/search.html>
"Science - Ozone Basics - NOAA Stratospheric Ozone." 2002. 11 May. 2016 <http://www.ozonelayer.noaa.gov/science/basics.htm>
"O3 Stock Photos, Images, & Pictures | Shutterstock." 2009. 19 May. 2016 <http://www.shutterstock.com/s/o3/search.html>
"Science - Ozone Basics - NOAA Stratospheric Ozone." 2002. 11 May. 2016 <http://www.ozonelayer.noaa.gov/science/basics.htm>