The key difference between oxygen and ozone lies in the number of oxygen atoms in their molecules.
Oxygen vs. Ozone: A Molecular Comparison
| Feature | Oxygen (O2) | Ozone (O3) |
|---|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | O2 | O3 |
| Atoms | Two oxygen atoms bound together. | Three oxygen atoms bound together. |
| Abundance | Makes up 21% of Earth's atmosphere. | Present in much smaller quantities, primarily in the stratosphere. |
Detailed Explanation
While both oxygen and ozone are composed of oxygen atoms, their molecular structures are different. Oxygen, in its common diatomic form (O2), is essential for respiration and constitutes a significant portion of the Earth's atmosphere. As the reference states, oxygen molecules (O2) make up 21% of Earth's atmosphere.
Ozone (O3), on the other hand, is a triatomic allotrope of oxygen. This means that each ozone molecule consists of three oxygen atoms bonded together. This seemingly small difference in atomic composition results in vastly different chemical and physical properties. Ozone is much less stable than oxygen and is a powerful oxidizing agent. It also plays a vital role in the Earth's stratosphere by absorbing harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.
Key Differences Summarized
- Structure: Oxygen (O2) has two oxygen atoms, while ozone (O3) has three.
- Stability: Ozone is less stable than oxygen.
- Function: Oxygen is essential for respiration. Ozone absorbs harmful UV radiation.
- Concentration: Oxygen is abundant in the Earth's atmosphere; ozone is present in much smaller quantities.
