Section C: Give a short answer to the question given below.
29. How is ozone formed in the higher levels of the atmosphere? "Damage to the ozone layer is a cause of concern." Justify this statement.
The ozone layer is continually produced in the atmosphere due to the impact of UV rays on molecular oxygen. When high-energy hits the upper atmosphere, it breaks down \(O_2\) molecules into . The free oxygen atoms then combine with oxygen molecules to create ozone. The depletion of the ozone layer has led to a hole in the Arctic region, allowing harmful UV rays to reach the Earth's surface. These rays can result in , as well as the death of many phytoplankton, contributing to increased global warming, which, in turn, leads to the melting of the Arctic ice cap and a potential rise in sea levels. Consequently, damage to the ozone layer is a significant cause for concern.