Chemistry: A Molecular Approach (3rd Edition)

Published by Prentice Hall
ISBN 10: 0321809246
ISBN 13: 978-0-32180-924-7

Chapter 22 - Sections 22.1-22.9 - Exercises - Review Questions - Page 1069: 16

Answer

The uses and hazards of ozone are detailed below.

Work Step by Step

Benefits: The layer of ozone in the upper atmosphere plays an important role in the absorption of harmful ultraviolet radiation from the sun. It absorbs the UV radiation and breaks apart to $O_{2}$ and O. This oxygen atom will often react with another $O_{2}$ molecule to re-form as ozone. During this cycle, each ozone molecule absorbs many ultraviolet photons. Hazards: In the lower atmosphere, ozone damages the lungs and skin, stings the eyes, and damages most plant and animal tissues. Ozone also reacts with many types of plastic and rubber materials, causing them to become brittle and to crack. Commercial applications: Ozone is used commercially as a strong oxidizing agent. For example, ozone can oxidize $NO_{2}$ to $N_{2}O_{5}$ or $PbS$ to $PbSO_{4}$.
Update this answer!

You can help us out by revising, improving and updating this answer.

Update this answer

After you claim an answer you’ll have 24 hours to send in a draft. An editor will review the submission and either publish your submission or provide feedback.