Ozone :: essays papers

OzoneOzone is an important molecule in maintaining the homeostasis in theenvironment. Ozone, the molecule O3, makes a tier in the stratosphere,situated 10 to 15 kilometers from the earths surface. The dioxidemolecule, O2 and Oxygen atom O, collide with each other result in theformation of Ozone, O3. In this reaction, the molecule O3 contains an pointlessof energy. Once the molecule is formed, it is not stable enough to lastlong. The energy-rich O3 molecules discards the excess energy by collidingwith another atom or molecule and transferring the energy in the form ofheat. In the results of the decomposition of ozone into O2 and O in theozone layer, solar radiation is absorbed. This process of the chemical bond gap causing the absorption of a photon by a molecule is calledphotodissociation. Radiation with sufficient intensity, is capable ofseparating the O3 molecule, resulting in photodissociation. The cyclicprocess formation and decomposition of ozone provides a shield againstult raviolet radiation that write down the earths atmosphere. If it were not forthe chemical reaction of radiation and ozone in the stratosphere, thesehigh-energy photons would penetrate the earths surface. The ozone layerabsorbers about 99% of the harmful radiation which makes it possible foranimals and plants to live on the planet.In 1974, F. Sherwood Rowland and Mario Molina of the University ofCalifornia proposed that chlorine from chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) coulddeplete the ozone layer. Beginning in 1957 to 1985, the British AntarcticSurvey had measured the average ozone concentration over Halley Bay inAntarctica. Up until 1974, the ozone concentration remained stable. Yetafter 1974, the team observed a decline of the ozone layer to levels lessthan 10%. From this study the awareness over the risk of exposure of the hole andultraviolet radiation and the destruction being done to the earth. Scientists believe the expanding ozone hole, which is centered overAntarctica was caused by Chloroflurocarbons. CFCs are released into theenvironment through such sources as spray cans , air conditioners,factories, refrigerants and cleaning products. CFCs are dangerous to theatmosphere because after they are released into the environment, thesunlight breaks down the compound. The chlorine molecules react with theozone molecules by permanently breaking down the molecule, thus diminishingthe ozone layer. This rise poses a major threat environment. In 1985, inVienna and in 1987 in Montreal, a Protocol was subscribe proposing the gradualtermination of use of CFCs over the decades. A dramatic reduction in theuse of CFCs was agreed on. Regulations to limit the production of