What are good and bad ozone ?
Ozone either protects or harms organisms on Earth depending on the height at which it is found. In the high stratosphere “good” ozone acts like a shield protecting Earth’s flora and fauna against the Sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation. An excess of UV radiation increases the risk of getting skin cancer or ocular diseases. It may also weaken the natural immunity of human beings and animals. On the other hand, near the surface, in the air we breathe, ozone is a pollutant, which in large amounts causes damage to man, animals and plants. It makes up about 10 % of all ozone, and is produced, for example, as a consequence of the exhaust fumes from cars. After a thunderstorm one can smell a sharp scent in the air. The same kind of “electric” smell may also occasionally be sensed while traveling on the metro. This is “bad” ozone, which in large amounts irritates the eyes and lungs. In summertime ozone may cause smog in large cities. During the Earth’s past history, natural conditions have varied
