Meaning & Definition of word "Ozone"
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Ozone
/ˈoʊ.zoʊn/
noun:
- 1. A pale blue gas composed of three oxygen atoms (O3), occurring naturally in the Earth's stratosphere and at ground level, where it can be a pollutant.
- Example: The ozone layer protects the Earth from the harmful effects of the sun's ultraviolet radiation.
- 2. A form of oxygen that is found in the upper atmosphere, which is essential for shielding the Earth from ultraviolet radiation.
- Example: Scientists are working to better understand the role of ozone in climate change.
- 3. In urban areas, ozone can be a harmful pollutant that affects air quality and human health.
- Example: High levels of ground-level ozone can aggravate respiratory problems in vulnerable populations.
- 4. Ozone is sometimes used in the context of its distinctive smell, often described as fresh or clean, found after thunderstorms.
- Example: After the rain, the air was crisp with the sharp scent of ozone.
Etymology
The word 'ozone' comes from the Greek 'ozein' meaning 'to smell'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
ozone layer:
The region of Earth's stratosphere that absorbs most of the sun's harmful ultraviolet radiation.
ozone depletion:
The reduction in the amount of ozone in the stratosphere, often caused by human-made chemicals.
good ozone:
Refers to ozone found in the stratosphere that protects the Earth from UV radiation.
Related Words
oxygen:
A chemical element essential for life, represented by the symbol O.
pollution:
The presence of harmful substances in the environment.
smog:
A type of air pollution that is a mixture of smoke and fog.