Ozone is a poisonous form of oxygen that can damage both plant and animal tissue. The oxygen we need to live contains 2 oxygen atoms per molecule. A natural ozone layer high in the atmosphere blocks much of the sun's harmful ultraviolet radiation from reaching Earth. Unlike this protective layer, ozone near the Earth's surface can be very destructive.
Ozone is the most wide-spread air pollutant in our country and is the main ingredient in smog.
Ozone damages plants by interfering with photosynthesis, the process plants use to make food. Kings Canyon National Parks show some visible ozone injury. Ozone injures the lungs of humans and other animals, decreasing their ability to fight infection and remove inhaled particles. Ozone can cause permanent lung damage, coughing, sinus inflammation, chest pains, scratchy throat, stinging eyes and general malaise. High concentrations are hazardous for people with heart and respiratory ailments.