- #1
rhia
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Saw an Ozone generator in dad's office.It reminded me of an article which said that ozone is harmful when inhaled.
Is it really harmful?
Is it really harmful?
Ozone is a gas made up of three oxygen atoms (O3) and is naturally present in the Earth's upper atmosphere. At ground level, it is considered a pollutant and is a major component of smog. Ozone can irritate the lungs, cause respiratory issues, and damage plant life.
Inhaling ozone can irritate the respiratory system, causing coughing, shortness of breath, and throat irritation. It can also aggravate existing respiratory conditions, such as asthma or bronchitis. Prolonged exposure can lead to decreased lung function and increased risk of respiratory infections.
Currently, the EPA sets the National Ambient Air Quality Standard for ozone at 0.070 parts per million (ppm) averaged over 8 hours. This level is based on protecting the general public, including sensitive groups such as children and older adults. However, some studies suggest that even at these levels, ozone can have negative health effects.
Ozone pollution is primarily created by chemical reactions between nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the presence of sunlight. These pollutants come from various sources, including vehicle emissions, industrial processes, and chemical solvents. Ozone levels are typically higher in urban areas with heavy traffic and industrial activity.
Air purifiers with activated carbon filters can help reduce ozone levels indoors. However, it is essential to choose a purifier that specifically states it can remove ozone. Additionally, eliminating sources of ozone, such as air fresheners and cleaning products with VOCs, can help improve indoor air quality.