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Ozone

UK //ˈəʊ.zəʊn// US //ˈoʊ.zoʊn// Pronunciation

Definition

A gas composed of three oxygen atoms that protects living things from harmful UV radiation.

Listen to definition

In simple words: A gas in the Earth's atmosphere that protects us from the sun.

Examples

• The ozone layer absorbs most of the sun's harmful ultraviolet radiation.
• Ozone is crucial for life on Earth because it filters out UV rays.
• Pollution can damage the ozone layer, leading to increased UV exposure.
• Some cities struggle with ground-level ozone on hot sunny days.
• Scientists study ozone levels to understand climate change impacts.

Usage notes

Used mainly in environmental science. It's more common in discussions about air quality and climate change rather than casual conversation.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Ozone sounds like 'own zone' - think of it as Earth's protective zone.

Collocations

• ozone layer
• ozone depletion
• ozone exposure
• ozone hole

Synonyms

• triatomic oxygen
• O3

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'ozone layer' (which refers to the area containing ozone).
• Often misspelled as 'ozon' without the 'e'.
• Misunderstood as a pollutant rather than a protective gas.