Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Tropospheric ozone is a secondary pollutant formed by the reaction of sunlight, nitrogen oxides, and volatile organic compounds. It is harmful when present at ground level and contributes to smog formation.
Related terms
Stratospheric Ozone: A layer of ozone in the Earth's stratosphere that protects us from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
Air Quality Index (AQI): A measurement used to report daily air quality levels and provide information about potential health risks associated with pollutants such as tropospheric ozone.