The layer or a shield type, formed in the earth’s stratosphere is called the ozone layer. This layer contains high levels of ozone, therefore referred to as the ozone layer.
The ozone layer is found in the upper regions of the stratosphere and in the lower portion of the earth’s atmosphere, which functions by protecting the earth from harmful ultraviolet rays. The ultraviolet rays released from the sun are very harmful, which affect life on the earth. Not only humans, both animals and plants are also affected by these radiations as they convert the free oxygen into ozone.
The ozone layer, found in the upper regions of the stratosphere has the potential to absorb around 97-99 per cent of the harmful ultraviolet radiations coming from the sun, which protect the human lives from various health hazards, including eye-related problems, skin cancer, skin diseases, cancer and other disorders. The UV radiation also affects the environment adversely leading to decreased productivity, the earth’s flora and fauna and other forms of life.
Explore more: Ozone Layer ad its Depletion
Formation Of Ozone Layer
The ozone layer found about 20 to 30 km above the earth’s surface is formed by accumulation of ozone. The ozone is accumulated by the conversion of atmospheric oxygen (O2) into ozone (O3) and this process is called “Chapman Cycle”.
The Ozone Layer – Thickness
The thickness of the ozone layer generally varies with the seasons and other geographical factors. According to reports, the ozone layer is approximately 20 to 30 kilometres above Earth, which is about 3 mm in thickness or about 300 Dobson Units.
Every year, 16th of September is observed as the World Ozone Day. The ozone layer plays a very significant role both by protecting the planet earth and the lives existing on it. Therefore, we all should protect the ozone layer by limiting the use of CFCs – Chlorofluorocarbons, Chlorine, pesticides, nitrous oxide, halo-carbons and other harmful gases and help in the restoration of the Ozone layer.
Also Refer: Greenhouses gases and its Effects
This article concludes an introduction to the ozone layer and its thickness. To know more about the ozone layer, its structure, functions, other related topics and important questions, keep visiting our website at BYJU’S Biology.
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