Ozone absorbs radiation, primarily ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun, through a process involving its chemical bonds breaking and reforming.
The Absorption Process Explained
Ozone (O3) molecules absorb UV radiation through a cycle of breaking apart and reforming. This cycle effectively converts the energy of the UV radiation into heat. Here's a breakdown:
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UV Radiation Interaction: When UV radiation strikes an ozone molecule, it provides enough energy to break one of the chemical bonds within the ozone molecule.
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Dissociation: The ozone molecule splits into an ordinary oxygen molecule (O2) and a free oxygen atom (O):
O3 + UV photon → O2 + O
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Reformation: The free oxygen atom (O) is highly reactive and quickly collides with another oxygen molecule (O2) to reform ozone (O3):
O + O2 → O3
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Energy Conversion: This continuous cycle of ozone destruction and reformation converts the harmful UV radiation into heat energy, which is then dissipated into the atmosphere. This process protects life on Earth from the damaging effects of UV radiation.
Why Ozone Is Effective
Ozone is particularly effective at absorbing UV-B radiation, which is the most harmful type of UV radiation reaching the Earth's surface. The specific wavelengths of UV radiation absorbed by ozone depend on the energy required to break the ozone molecule's bonds. This selective absorption is crucial for maintaining a habitable environment on Earth.
Summary
In short, ozone absorbs UV radiation by being broken apart into an oxygen molecule and an oxygen atom, then reforming. This cyclical process converts UV radiation into heat, protecting the Earth's surface.
