The key difference is that ozone is a molecule (O3), while the ozone layer is a region in the Earth's stratosphere containing a high concentration of ozone molecules.
Ozone: The Molecule
- Composition: Ozone (O3) consists of three oxygen atoms bonded together.
- Formation: It's created when ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun strikes oxygen molecules (O2), splitting them into single oxygen atoms. These single atoms can then combine with other O2 molecules to form O3.
- Function: Ozone absorbs harmful UV radiation from the sun, protecting life on Earth.
- Location: While present throughout the atmosphere, its concentration is highest in the ozone layer.
Ozone Layer: The Region
- Definition: The ozone layer is a region of Earth's stratosphere, located approximately 15 to 35 kilometers (9 to 22 miles) above the Earth's surface.
- Composition: It contains a higher concentration of ozone molecules (O3) compared to other parts of the atmosphere. It constitutes about 90% of the total ozone in the atmosphere.
- Function: Its high concentration of ozone molecules effectively absorbs a significant portion of the Sun's harmful UV radiation, acting as a shield for life on Earth.
- Importance: Without the ozone layer, more harmful UV radiation would reach the surface, leading to increased risks of skin cancer, cataracts, and other health problems, as well as damage to ecosystems.
Summary Table
| Feature | Ozone (O3) | Ozone Layer |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | A molecule made of three oxygen atoms | A region in the stratosphere with high ozone concentration |
| Composition | Three oxygen atoms (O3) | Primarily ozone (O3) molecules, but also other atmospheric gases |
| Function | Absorbs UV radiation | Absorbs UV radiation on a large scale, shielding the Earth |
| Location | Throughout the atmosphere | Primarily in the stratosphere |
In short, ozone is the stuff that the ozone layer is made of. The ozone layer is the place where there's a lot of that stuff.
