Ozone

Ozone (O₃) is a gas formed in the atmosphere through chemical reactions between volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and nitrogen oxides (NOₓ) in the presence of sunlight. It plays a dual role in the environment: in the stratosphere, ozone forms the ozone layer, which protects life on Earth by absorbing harmful ultraviolet radiation. However, at ground level, ozone is a harmful pollutant that can cause respiratory issues, exacerbate health conditions, and damage ecosystems. Ground-level ozone is a key component of smog, making it a significant concern in urban and industrial areas.