The ozone layer
Example: Ozone layer protects Earth by filtering harmful ultraviolet radiation
Definition
"The ozone layer" is a region of Earth's stratosphere containing a high concentration of ozone molecules that absorbs most of the Sun's harmful ultraviolet radiation, protecting living organisms from its damaging effects and helping to maintain the planet's climate balance.
Etymology
The term "the ozone layer" comes from 'ozone,' which was named in the mid-19th century from the Greek word 'ozein,' meaning 'to smell,' due to the distinctive smell of ozone gas. The 'layer' part refers to its formation as a distinct atmospheric stratum. Did you know? The discovery of the ozone layer was crucial for understanding how life on Earth is shielded from ultraviolet rays.
Learn to use this word actively
"The ozone layer" appears in the Vocaplus list "English - Environment - (A1-C2) - set 1", containing 100 commonly used words.
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