Detecting Ozone

Posted by Rhys Redrup

Detecting Ozone

Detecting Ozone
Formula: O3
CAS Number: 10028-15-6

Overview – Detecting Ozone:
Ozone (O3) is a naturally occurring gas composed of three oxygen atoms bonded together. It is a vital component of Earth’s atmosphere, forming the ozone layer in the stratosphere, where it plays a crucial role in absorbing ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. However, ozone also exists at ground level as a pollutant, formed through complex chemical reactions involving precursor pollutants emitted by human activities. Ground-level ozone is a major component of smog and poses significant health and environmental risks.

Formation:
Ground-level ozone is formed through atmospheric reactions involving precursor pollutants such as nitrogen oxide (NO) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the presence of sunlight. These pollutants are emitted by vehicles, industrial processes, and natural sources. In sunlight, NO and VOCs react to form ozone and other secondary pollutants, contributing to the formation of smog.

Health Effects:
Exposure to high concentrations of ground-level ozone can have adverse effects on human health, particularly affecting the respiratory system. Health effects of ozone exposure include:
• Respiratory irritation
• coughing
• throat irritation
• Aggravation of asthma and other respiratory conditions
• Reduced lung function
• Increased susceptibility to respiratory infections
• Long-term exposure may lead to chronic respiratory diseases and cardiovascular effects

Detecting ozone (O₃) with a gas detector involves using specialised sensors that measure the concentration of ozone in the air.

Sensors include:

Electrochemical
Semiconducting metal oxide sensors
Ultraviolet absorption sensors

Conclusion:
Ozone is a complex gas with both beneficial and harmful effects depending on its location in the atmosphere. While the ozone layer protects life on Earth from harmful UV radiation, ground-level ozone pollution poses significant health and environmental risks. Efforts to reduce ozone pollution through emissions controls, regulatory measures, and public awareness are essential for protecting human health and the environment.

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