ozone is a molecule that is helpful in the upper atmosphere but harmful at ground level. research the answer?

Question

for following:
a. why is ground level ozone a problem?
b. write the mechanism of a reaction that leads to the production of ozone.
c.why is the decomposition of ozone in the stratosphere a probelm?

Answer 1

Ozone (in large quantities) is poisonous to humans and many animals. In smaller quantities, it can harm lung function and irritate the respiratory system. There has also been shown to be a connection between increased ozone caused by thunderstorms and hospital admissions of asthma sufferers.

Ozone can be created by passing an electric current through air, causing O2 molecules to reform into O3 molecules (Ozone). At low levels, it is also formed by the reaction of sunlight on air containing hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides that react to form ozone directly at the source of the pollution or many kilometers down wind. Hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides are by-products of fossil fuel combustion, common in urban zones.

Decomposition of stratospheric ozone depletes the Earth's primary defence against the sun's ultra-violet rays. Ultra-violet radiation is the primary factor in sun damage to human skin (e.g. sunburn), with long-term sun damage being a significant precursor to skin cancer.

Answer 2

Ground level ozone is a problem because it is more of an ozidizer than is oxygen and leads to damage to materials and to the breathing system in large concentrations.

Ozone can be formed in thunderstorms by the reaction 3O2 -> 2O3

Ozone absorbs ultraviolet rays. If these rays are not absorbed, the strong energy associated with the rays can cause damage to skin and eyes. If the ozone available to absorb these rays is lower, the less it can shield the animals on land and perhaps in the sea.