Explain ozone formation.

Ozone (O₃) is formed in the stratosphere through a natural process called the ozone-oxygen cycle.

Steps of Ozone Formation:

1. UV Radiation Splits Oxygen Molecules: When high-energy ultraviolet (UV-C) radiation from the sun strikes an oxygen molecule (O₂), it splits into two oxygen atoms (O).

2. Oxygen Atoms React with Oxygen Molecules: These free oxygen atoms (O) then react with other oxygen molecules (O₂) to form ozone (O₃).

3. Ozone Absorbs UV Radiation: Ozone molecules absorb UV-B and UV-C radiation, breaking down back into O₂ and O. The cycle repeats, maintaining the balance of ozone in the stratosphere.

 

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