Ozone Pollution
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Why in News?
As per the findings of Central Pollution Control Board data from 22 cities in 15 States during the lockdown says, particulate matter and Nitrous oxide level felled during lockdown however Ozone level increased in several cities.
More about Ozone
It is composed of three atoms of oxygen (O3).
Ozone can be good or bad depending on where it’s found in the atmosphere.
Stratospheric ozone- is good because it protects living things from ultraviolet radiation from the sun.
Ozone at ground level is a harmful air pollutant, because of its effects on people and the environment, particularly for children, the elderly, and people of all ages who have lung diseases such as asthma
How does ground-level ozone form?
It is not emitted directly into the air, However it is created by chemical reactions between oxides of nitrogen (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOC). These are emitted by combustion sources like cars, Industries which reacts in the presence of sunlight.
It is most likely to reach unhealthy levels on hot sunny days in urban environments.
It can reach high levels during colder months.
As it can be transported long distances by wind, so it impacts rural areas also.