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Ozone

Definition

Ozone is an allotrope of oxygen consisting three oxygen atoms bonded together into an O3 molecule. It forms naturally in Earth's upper atmosphere where it protects life from harmful ultraviolet radiation from Sun.

Analogy

You can think of ozone as Earth's sunglasses. Just like how sunglasses protect your eyes from harmful UV rays, the ozone layer absorbs most of these rays before they reach the surface.

Related terms

Ozone Layer: The layer in Earth's atmosphere which contains a high concentration of ozone (O3). It absorbs most of the Sun's ultraviolet radiation.

Oxygen Molecule (O2): A molecule consisting of two oxygen atoms bonded together, it is essential for life on earth.

Allotropes: Different physical forms in which an element can exist. For example, graphite and diamond are allotropes of carbon.



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© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.