Question

What is ozone and how does it affect any ecosystem?

Hint:

Ozone protects life on Earth from harmful UV radiation. Use of CFC-free products helps in reducing ozone depletion.

Answer 1

Step 1: Definition of ozone.
Ozone is an allotrope of oxygen composed of three oxygen atoms (\(O_3\)). It is found mainly in the stratosphere and forms the ozone layer. This layer acts as a protective shield around the Earth.
Step 2: Formation of ozone.
Ozone is formed when ultraviolet rays split oxygen molecules (\(O_2\)) into individual oxygen atoms, which then combine with other oxygen molecules. \[ \text{O}_2 \xrightarrow{\text{UV}} 2\text{O} \text{and} \text{O} + \text{O}_2 \rightarrow \text{O}_3 \] Step 3: Function of ozone layer.
The ozone layer absorbs harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the Sun. Without this layer, living organisms would be exposed to dangerous UV rays leading to skin cancer, eye damage, and harm to plants and aquatic life.
Step 4: Effect of ozone depletion on ecosystem.
- Excessive UV radiation damages DNA and cells in organisms.
- It reduces crop productivity and affects phytoplankton in oceans, disrupting the food chain.
- Animals and humans suffer from higher risks of diseases due to radiation exposure.
Step 5: Conclusion.
Ozone is essential for life on Earth as it maintains the ecological balance by filtering harmful UV radiation. Protecting the ozone layer ensures the stability of the ecosystem.