O3: meaning, definitions and examples

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O3

 

[ oʊzəʊn ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

chemical compound

O3, commonly known as ozone, is a triatomic molecule consisting of three oxygen atoms. It plays a crucial role in the Earth's atmosphere, particularly in the stratosphere, where it forms the ozone layer that protects living organisms from harmful ultraviolet radiation.

Synonyms

ozone

Examples of usage

  • The ozone layer absorbs most of the sun's harmful UV radiation.
  • O3 is a significant greenhouse gas that can influence climate change.
  • High levels of O3 in the lower atmosphere can lead to respiratory problems.
  • Researchers study O3 levels to assess air quality and environmental health.

Word origin

The term 'ozone' originates from the Greek word 'ozein' which means 'to smell'. It was first described in the 18th century by the Dutch chemist Martinus van Marum, who noted its distinct smell during experiments involving electric sparks in air. Later, in 1839, the German chemist Christian Friedrich Schönbein officially coined the term 'ozone' to describe this pungent gas produced from oxygen. The understanding of ozone's role in the atmosphere evolved over the years, leading to recognition of its importance in filtering ultraviolet radiation from the sun. In the late 20th century, concerns about ozone depletion due to human-made chemicals like CFCs spurred significant environmental movements and international agreements aimed at protecting the ozone layer, demonstrating its vital role in sustaining life on Earth.