Why is the ozone layer important?

The stratospheric ozone layer absorbs harmful high-energy ultraviolet (UV-B) radiation from the Sun, protecting living organisms from DNA damage, skin cancers, and cataracts.

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Core Study Guide

Environmental Chemistry

The chemical processes occurring in the environment.

Environmental chemistry describes chemical processes in the soil, air, and water, along with human pollution impacts.

This unit covers acid rain formation, greenhouse gases, ozone depletion mechanisms, and water purification processes.

Key Takeaways

•Acid rain forms when sulfur and nitrogen oxides dissolve in atmospheric moisture.
•Ozone depletion is catalyzed by chlorine radicals released from chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs).
•Water purification uses coagulation, filtration, and chlorination.

Core Concepts & Definitions

1Acid Rain Chemistry

Sulfur dioxide (from coal) and nitrogen oxides (from cars) react with water vapor to form strong acids, lowering pH below 5.6.

•Forms sulfuric acid (H2SO4) and nitric acid (HNO3).

•Corrodes limestone buildings (calcium carbonate) and acidifies aquatic ecosystems.

Quick Revision Notes

•Greenhouse gases absorb and re-emit infrared radiation, trapping thermal energy in the atmosphere.
•Eutrophication is caused by nutrient runoff (phosphates, nitrates) leading to oxygen depletion in lakes.