There is a constant cycle that keeps on repeating. Often, the ozone molecule collides with an oxygen atom and oxygen is formed again. A cycle of these two reactions continues and this entire cycle is called the Chapman Cycle. This was named after scientist Sydney Chapman who explained this chemical reaction for the first time in May 1929.
This reaction is called Photodissociation or Photolysis. Photo means light and dissociation means splitting up. The atoms split up because of light. The Ozone layer is mainly known for protecting us from harmful sun rays or UV radiation. UV rays can cause sunburns, weakening of our immune system, cataracts and skin and eye cancer.
Now you might be thinking that if ozone’s job is to protect us from UV rays, then why do we apply sunscreen to protect ourselves from UV rays? The reason behind this is very interesting. Actually, almost all wavelengths of radiation are emitted by the sun. Almost all types of rays in the electromagnetic spectrum, are emitted from the sun. Be it visible light, which is between 380-700 nm, or UV rays, gamma rays or X-rays.
