Difference between revisions of "Ozone"
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'''Ozone''' is a chemical [[compound]] consisting of three [[oxygen]] atoms. It is represented by the symbol O<sub>3</sub>. | '''Ozone''' is a chemical [[compound]] consisting of three [[oxygen]] atoms. It is represented by the symbol O<sub>3</sub>. | ||
| − | It is unstable at standard temperatures and pressures, and a powerful [[oxidizer]]. At the earth's surface it occurs naturally as a result of electrical discharges, most prominently, [[lightning]]. It is also created by [[man-made]] sparks, such as in an electrical motor. In the upper atmosphere it serves a very important function | + | It is unstable at standard temperatures and pressures, and a powerful [[oxidizer]]. At the earth's surface it occurs naturally as a result of electrical discharges, most prominently, [[lightning]]. It is also created by [[man-made]] sparks, such as in an electrical motor. |
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| + | In the upper atmosphere it serves a very important function, by acting to filter out most of the sun's ultraviolet radiation. This ozone layer has been threatened in recent decades by the release of [[chlorofluorocarbons]], which act as [[catalyst]]s to break down the O<sub>3</sub> molecules. | ||
Some air freshening devices generate ozone to aid in the breakdown of airborne chemicals. | Some air freshening devices generate ozone to aid in the breakdown of airborne chemicals. | ||
[[category:Chemistry]] | [[category:Chemistry]] | ||
Revision as of 21:39, May 8, 2007
Ozone is a chemical compound consisting of three oxygen atoms. It is represented by the symbol O3.
It is unstable at standard temperatures and pressures, and a powerful oxidizer. At the earth's surface it occurs naturally as a result of electrical discharges, most prominently, lightning. It is also created by man-made sparks, such as in an electrical motor.
In the upper atmosphere it serves a very important function, by acting to filter out most of the sun's ultraviolet radiation. This ozone layer has been threatened in recent decades by the release of chlorofluorocarbons, which act as catalysts to break down the O3 molecules.
Some air freshening devices generate ozone to aid in the breakdown of airborne chemicals.