Ozone (O3) is a pale blue gas with a distinctive pungent odor and possesses several important physical and chemical properties.
Physical Properties of Ozone
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Color and Odor: Under normal conditions, ozone is a pale blue gas. It is colorless at the high concentrations found in the upper atmosphere. It has a distinctive pungent odor, often detectable after thunderstorms or around electrical equipment.
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Boiling Point: Ozone has a boiling point of -112°C.
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Solubility: Ozone is partially soluble in water at atmospheric pressure.
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Density: Ozone is denser than oxygen.
Chemical Properties of Ozone
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Oxidizing Agent: Ozone is a powerful oxidizing agent, stronger than molecular oxygen (O2). This oxidizing ability allows it to disinfect, deodorize, and bleach.
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Instability: Ozone is thermodynamically unstable and decomposes back to molecular oxygen (O2). This decomposition can be accelerated by catalysts, such as certain metals, and by temperature increases.
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Reaction with Organic Compounds: Ozone reacts with various organic compounds, breaking down many pollutants. This reactivity is exploited in water treatment and air purification.
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UV Absorption: Ozone strongly absorbs ultraviolet (UV) radiation, particularly in the UV-B range (280-315 nm). This absorption is crucial in the Earth's stratosphere, as it shields the surface from harmful UV radiation.
Summary of Ozone Properties
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Color | Pale blue gas |
| Odor | Pungent, distinctive |
| Boiling Point | -112°C |
| Solubility | Partially soluble in water |
| Oxidizing Agent | Powerful; stronger than oxygen |
| Stability | Thermodynamically unstable; decomposes to O2 |
| UV Absorption | Strongly absorbs UV radiation, especially UV-B, protecting the Earth's surface. |
