Ozone is a molecule that consists of three oxygen atoms bonded together. The ozone layer in the stratosphere absorbs UV radiation and creates a warm layer of air high in the stratosphere. Ozone that is present in the troposphere is mostly a result of anthropogenic pollution and therefore higher concentrations are found in urban areas. Ozone is involved with NOx in the photochemical production of many of the constituents of pollution environments A very strong oxidizing agent which is unstable, and must be generated on site. Ozone can also be produced by some types of ultraviolet lamps.
Ozone is an excellent oxidizing agent and bactericide.