O

Ozone

O₃; λ_abs = 254 nm; O₃ → O₂ + O (photolysis); E° (O₃/O₂) = +2.07 V
Quick Reference
Formula / NotationO₃; λ_abs = 254 nm; O₃ → O₂ + O (photolysis); E° (O₃/O₂) = +2.07 V
Also Known AsO₃, trioxygen, activated oxygen, ozone (allotrope of oxygen)

What is Ozone?

An allotrope of oxygen with molecular formula O₃. Ozone in the stratosphere absorbs harmful UV radiation, protecting life on Earth. At ground level, it is a pollutant and respiratory irritant. Ozone is a powerful oxidizing agent used in water purification and bleaching.

Formula & Notation

O₃; λ_abs = 254 nm; O₃ → O₂ + O (photolysis); E° (O₃/O₂) = +2.07 V

Other Names / Synonyms: O₃, trioxygen, activated oxygen, ozone (allotrope of oxygen)

Properties & Characteristics

Ozone (O₃) is an allotrope of oxygen consisting of three oxygen atoms in a bent geometry (bond angle 117.8°). It is a pale blue gas with a distinctive sharp odour. Ozone is thermodynamically unstable relative to O₂ but kinetically persistent at room temperature. In the stratosphere (ozone layer, 15-35 km altitude), ozone absorbs harmful UV-B and UV-C radiation. Ground-level ozone is an air pollutant and component of photochemical smog.

Uses & Applications

Ozone is used in: water purification (disinfection more effective than chlorine, no halogenated by-products), bleaching of paper and food products, industrial oxidation reactions (ozonolysis of alkenes to carbonyl compounds), odour elimination, medical applications (ozone therapy, controversial), and in electronics manufacturing for surface cleaning.

Safety Information

Ozone is highly toxic at concentrations above 0.1 ppm (OSHA PEL = 0.1 ppm ceiling). It causes respiratory irritation, pulmonary inflammation, and exacerbates asthma. Ozone generators must not be used in occupied spaces. Ozone in industrial use requires gas detection, interlocks, and emergency ventilation. Stratospheric ozone depletion by CFCs and halons is a global environmental concern.

Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.

Key Facts

Term Ozone
Formula O₃; λ_abs = 254 nm; O₃ → O₂ + O (photolysis); E° (O₃/O₂) = +2.07 V
Synonyms O₃, trioxygen, activated oxygen, ozone (allotrope of oxygen)

Frequently Asked Questions

An allotrope of oxygen with molecular formula O₃. Ozone in the stratosphere absorbs harmful UV radiation, protecting life on Earth. At ground level, it is a pollutant and respiratory irritant. Ozone is a powerful oxidizing agent used in water purification and bleaching.

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