Ozones

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A gaseous molecule composed of three oxygen atoms, often found in the Earth's stratosphere which absorbs most of the sun's harmful ultraviolet radiation
2. A form of oxygen that appears in a triatomic configuration, playing a crucial role in atmospheric chemistry and protecting living organisms from solar radiation
3. A pale blue gas that can be both beneficial and harmful, existing in the upper atmosphere to shield life while at ground level it can contribute to air pollution and respiratory issues

Etymology: "Ozones" is simply the plural of "ozone," so the history belongs to the singular. In 1840, the German chemist Christian Friedrich Schönbein named the gas after its smell. He took the name from Ancient Greek "ózon," the neuter form of "ózō," meaning "I smell," and the name was a nod to the sharp, pungent odour that the gas gives off. The "fresh air" sense of the word comes from a mistaken belief. People once thought that seaweed contained ozone and released it into the air, which made the seaside seem especially invigorating. That idea was wrong, but the association with clean, bracing air stuck around in ordinary speech.

Synonyms: O3 molecules, oxygen triatomic molecules