Ozone Layer: Formation, UV Blocking, Depletion

Ozone layer definition and location

The ozone layer (or ozone shield) is a region of Earth’s stratosphere that contains a relatively high concentration of ozone (O3) and absorbs most of the Sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Although ozone is present in small amounts compared with other atmospheric gases, it is crucial for protecting life by filtering biologically harmful UV, especially UV-B. In terms of location, the ozone layer is mainly found in the lower portion of the stratosphere, roughly between 15 and 35 kilometers above Earth (with seasonal and geographic variation). Its ozone concentration typically peaks at about 8 to 15 parts per million, and about 90% of atmospheric ozone resides in the stratosphere. The layer’s thickness is generally thinner near the equator and thicker near the poles, and it varies with atmospheric circulation and solar intensity.

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Ozone layer UV absorption and wavelength ranges

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