Why is tropospheric ozone called “bad” ozone?
Whereas ozone in the stratosphere — good ozone — is beneficial because it shields us from ultraviolet radiation, ozone in the lower atmosphere — bad ozone — is harmful to living things. It harms lung tissue, and stunts the growth of plants and crops. Reactions involving ozone can damage electronic devices and materials such as rubber, plastics, outdoor paints, photographic papers, and fabrics. Is tropospheric ozone a greenhouse gas?Yes, tropospheric ozone is a greenhouse gas, which means it contributes to global warming. It is also involved in chemical reactions that produce the hydroxyl radical (OH). This plays a critical role in the atmospheres ability to cleanse itself of many pollutants. The hydroxyl radical is necessary for ozone formation in the lower atmosphere. How is ozone formed and destroyed in the troposphere?Ozone does form naturally in the troposphere, but it has become a pollutant as a result of human activity. Chemicals emitted from industrial processes, vehicle exh
