What is the O-zone layer and why is it important?

Ozone, or O3, is a form of oxygen that is unstable in the lower atmosphere and is found at the top of the troposphere (tropopause).

Because O3 absorbs ultraviolet radiation, unlike the other gases in the atmosphere, life on Earth is shielded from the carcinogenic effects of UV radiation.

The ozone layer is a region of Earth's stratosphere that contains a high concentration of ozone (O3) molecules. It plays a crucial role in absorbing the majority of the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation, particularly UV-B and UV-C rays. This absorption prevents most of these harmful rays from reaching the Earth's surface, where they can cause various health problems in humans, such as skin cancer, cataracts, and immune system suppression. Additionally, the ozone layer helps regulate the Earth's temperature by absorbing and redistributing solar energy, contributing to the overall balance of the Earth's climate.