The formation of ozone by reaction of O 2 with atomic oxygen in UV light
The formation of ozone by reaction of O2 with atomic oxygen in UV light occurs in
- A) upper atmosphere
- B) inner atmosphere
- C) stratosphere
- D) hemisphere
Correct Answer: A) upper atmosphere
Explanation
Ozone (O\(_3\) is a molecule made up of three oxygen atoms. It forms in the upper atmosphere when ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun interacts with molecular oxygen (O\(_2\). This process is called photodissociation, and it causes O\(_2\) molecules to split into individual oxygen atoms. These single oxygen atoms then react with other O\(_2\) molecules to form ozone (O\(_3\).
The upper atmosphere, also known as the stratosphere, is the region where this reaction primarily occurs. The ozone layer is located in the stratosphere, and it plays a crucial role in protecting life on Earth by absorbing harmful UV radiation from the sun.
Option A, upper atmosphere, is the correct answer because this is the location where O\(_2\) reacts with atomic oxygen in UV light to form ozone. This process does not typically occur in other regions of the atmosphere, such as the inner atmosphere (troposphere) or the hemisphere.
To learn more about ozone formation and its role in the atmosphere, please read the relevant sections of the recommended textbooks.