Question

How does the ozone layer help maintain ground-level air quality?

Answer 1

The ozone layer plays a critical role in maintaining ground-level air quality by absorbing most of the harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun preventing it from reaching and harming living organisms on Earth's surface. This radiation can trigger chemical reactions in the atmosphere leading to the production of harmful pollutants such as ozone, nitrogen oxides, and volatile organic compounds. These pollutants contribute to the formation of smog and acid rain and pose health risks to humans and other living organisms. By blocking harmful UV radiation, the ozone layer helps to regulate the chemical processes that produce such pollutants and maintains a higher level of air quality at the ground level.