As you can see, there are no real holes in these places, but it’s easier to say that than to call it ”local depletion of the ozone layer,” you agree.
Advertisement
The largest ozone hole is located above Antarctica and its area as of 2019 was 23 million square kilometers. At the same time, its area is not constant and does not grow in one direction. Over the past 30 years, it has varied from 12 to 27 million square kilometers.
What is the ozone layer for?
Many people ask if it is possible to live without the ozone layer. Of course, you can, but not on our planet and not our kind.
The ozone layer consists of ozone, as it is not difficult to guess. It is a gas that consists of molecules comprising three oxygen atoms. Ozone is formed when exposed to ultraviolet radiation in the upper atmosphere on molecular oxygen.
The existence of this layer helps us to protect ourselves from the effects of ultraviolet radiation. It turns out that it creates it and stops by itself. Of course, the part goes on, but it only benefits us. As they say, everything is good in moderation.
What is the ozone layer for? Ozone holes don’t look as colorful, but in general the display is correct. Photo.
Ozone holes don’t look as colorful, but in general the display is correct.
The ozone layer appeared on Earth after the beginning of the photosynthesis process. This happened about 600 million years ago and allowed living beings to come out of the water onto land. Only after that it became relatively safe on it.
If suddenly the ozone layer disappears, a huge amount of solar radiation will fall on the Earth and we will no longer treat it as something pleasant, summery and light. It will simply kill all living things. Some forms of life will survive, perhaps, only in water. And that’s not a fact. For example, an increased flow of ultraviolet solar radiation penetrating the ocean leads to the death of its inhabitants living near the surface. So the ozone layer is our friend and it must be protected to prevent truly terrible consequences.
