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World Book at NASA for Students

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Drawing of the sun’s ultraviolet rays decreasing as they go through Earth’s ozone layer
Ozone is a form of oxygen. It is a pale blue gas that has a strong odor.

Image to left: The ozone is a protective layer of gas that surrounds the Earth. Credit: World Book illustration

Most ozone is in the air high above the Earth. This layer of ozone shields the planet from dangerous rays of the sun that can cause skin cancer. Scientists have found that areas in the ozone layer are thinning out. These areas are called ozone holes. They lie near areas above the North and South Poles.

Some ozone is also near the ground. There, it pollutes the air. It can also damage rubber and plastic and harm plants. It can cause headaches, burning eyes, and sore throats in many people.

How to cite this article: To cite this article, World Book recommends the following format: "Ozone." The World Book Student Discovery Encyclopedia. Chicago: World Book, Inc., 2005.

 
 
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