Ozone (O3) is a very reactive chemical formed by the
reaction of nitrogen dioxide and sunlight.
The formation of ozone in the atmosphere is also contributed to by
the presence of volatile organic compounds (VOC).
The main sources of ozone are from industrial emissions and
solvent use such as dry cleaning and painting.
Ozone is removed at night and inside buildings by reactions with
surfaces.
It is found in lowest concentrations next to busy roads where to
the release of nitric oxide (NO) from vehicles are highest.
Nitric oxide reacts with ozone and removes it from the
atmosphere.
The highest concentrations of ozone occur during the summer months
when sunlight is at its strongest in rural areas where there is
little nitrous oxides from vehicles.
Ozone affects the delicate surface tissues of the body,
including lungs, eyes and nose as an irritant.
In North Somerset ozone is monitored at Bristol Airport using
diffusion tubes.
