Meaning & Definition of word "Ozone"
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.