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Year 11 - Science

Ozone layer: a story of global success

Atmosphere and changing climate

Unit Summary

This unit explores the composition and evolution of Earth's atmosphere, evidence of climate change, and effects of pollutants like sulphur dioxide. It highlights scientific explanations, ethical considerations, risk evaluation, and the role of peer review in communication.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to describe why the ozone layer was nearly destroyed, but through a global community and international resolution it was saved.

Key Notes

  • The ozone layer protects life from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the Sun.
  • Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) were once used, and when they entered our atmosphere reacted with ozone (O₃).
  • Ozone levels decreased, but scientific communication led to action being taken to prevent further loss of ozone.
  • The work of analytical scientists suggests the ozone layer is now reforming.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • ozone: Ozone is made up of oxygen atoms. It has the molecular formula O₃.
  • ozone layer: The ozone layer refers to an area in the stratosphere where there is a high concentration of ozone.
  • ultraviolet (UV) radiation: Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a type of electromagnetic radiation which is emitted from the Sun.
  • chlorofluorocarbons: Chlorofluorocarbons are compounds consisting of chlorine, fluorine and carbon atoms only.
  • analytical scientists: Analytical scientists use a range of scientific techniques to study the chemical composition of substances.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Ozone layer and climate change are linked/the same thing.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Explain the scientific idea in this lesson using two key points.

The ozone layer protects life from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the Sun. Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) were once used, and when they entered our atmosphere reacted with ozone (O₃).

2. Define this scientific word and use it in context. 'ozone'

Ozone is made up of oxygen atoms. It has the molecular formula O₃. Include the word in a full scientific explanation, not as a single label.

3. Correct this common scientific misunderstanding.

Mistake: Ozone layer and climate change are linked/the same thing. Correction: Ozone layer depletion was caused by human activity, but not through use of burning fossil fuels/greenhouse gas emissions. Both are atmospheric issues, but not the same issue.

More Lessons In This Unit

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