Ozone is a gas of high oxidizing power whose molecule is composed of three oxygen atoms with a triangular geometry. The ozone molecule is formed by the dissociation of two atoms that make up the molecule of oxygen gas. The released oxygen atoms bind to other molecules of oxygen (O2), forming ozone molecules (O3).
The natural state of gaseous ozone is found in very small proportion in the air we breathe in an approximate concentration of 20 parts per billion (ppb) and in summer can rise up to 100 ppmm. The normal ambient gas Ozone has a color but is usually colorless, pungent, but when found in high concentrations the color becomes slightly blue.
Ozone is an allotrope of oxygen, as demonstrated by J. L. Soret in 1863, that the liquefied form a dark blue liquid. From the chemical point of view, ozone is very active, highlighting its strong oxidizing power. Both the oxygen atom and ozone react with hydrocarbons to produce olefinic aldehydes, ketones and alcohols.
The ozone breaks down quickly in the presence of oxygen when the temperature surpasses the {PN100° PN} C. To break down the ozone to environmental temperature they are employed catalysis. The ozone can be produced of artificial way by means of generators of ozone.
Although its main property is its high oxidizing power, ozone is best known for his role in the atmosphere. Ozone absorbs ultraviolet radiation with a wavelength difficult life on earth. These radiation weakens the immune system of living beings, promoting respiratory system diseases, and produce mutations in DNA lead to skin cancer, melanoma of skin, cataracts and other conditions and decreasing the photosynthesis of plants.
Ozone helps to preserve life by absorbing harmful ultraviolet radiation to health of living beings and helping to maintain the heat balance of the atmosphere.
Ozone has application in the synthesis of organic compounds, especially taking advantage of its high oxidizing power, ozone is used in purification pools and treatment plants as a disinfectant.
