Ozone layer

The ozone layer is a region of Earth's upper atmosphere (the stratosphere) that contains a high concentration of ozone gas.

Function

It absorbs most of the Sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation, protecting life on Earth from damage such as skin cancer and harm to crops.

Ozone hole

In the 20th century, chemicals called CFCs thinned the ozone layer, especially over Antarctica. The 1987 Montreal Protocol banned many of these chemicals, and the layer is slowly recovering.

Frequently asked questions

What does the ozone layer do?

It absorbs most of the Sun's harmful ultraviolet radiation.

What damaged the ozone layer?

Man-made chemicals called CFCs.