Question

Ozone is good

• A. in the troposphere
• B. in the mesosphere
• C. in the stratosphere
• D. in the thermosphere

Hint:

• Stratospheric Ozone ("Good Ozone"): Forms the ozone layer, absorbs harmful UV radiation from the sun, protecting life on Earth. Located in the stratosphere.
• Tropospheric Ozone ("Bad Ozone"): A major air pollutant at ground level, component of smog, harmful to health and vegetation. Located in the troposphere.
• The question "Ozone is good" refers to its beneficial role in the stratosphere.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

To answer the question, let's explore the different layers of the Earth's atmosphere and understand where ozone is beneficial and where it can be harmful.

1. Understanding the Concepts:

- Ozone (O₃): Ozone is a molecule composed of three oxygen atoms and plays a crucial role in absorbing and protecting the Earth from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the Sun. However, ozone has different effects depending on its location in the atmosphere.

- Troposphere: The troposphere is the lowest layer of the atmosphere, where weather occurs. Ozone in the troposphere is considered a harmful pollutant, contributing to the formation of smog and respiratory problems. It is not beneficial in this layer.

- Stratosphere: The stratosphere is the second layer of the atmosphere, where the ozone layer resides. Ozone here plays a crucial role in protecting life on Earth by absorbing most of the Sun's harmful UV radiation. Ozone in the stratosphere is good and essential for life.

- Mesosphere and Thermosphere: These layers are higher up in the atmosphere. While ozone is present in the thermosphere, it does not have the same protective role as it does in the stratosphere. In the mesosphere, ozone is not abundant enough to have a significant impact.

2. Breakdown of the Given Options:

• Option 1: "In the Troposphere": Ozone in the troposphere is considered harmful. It contributes to air pollution and can cause respiratory problems, particularly in high concentrations.
• Option 2: "In the Mesosphere": Ozone is not concentrated in the mesosphere and does not play a significant role in this layer.
• Option 3: "In the Stratosphere": Ozone in the stratosphere is beneficial and plays a critical role in protecting the Earth from harmful UV radiation by absorbing the majority of the Sun's UV rays.
• Option 4: "In the Thermosphere": Ozone is present in the thermosphere, but it does not have the same protective role as in the stratosphere. The main role of ozone is in the stratosphere, not the thermosphere.

3. Conclusion:

The most beneficial location for ozone is in the stratosphere, where it forms the ozone layer that protects life on Earth from harmful ultraviolet radiation.

Final Answer:

Ozone is good in the stratosphere.