What would happen if ozone, nitrogen and oxygen disappear?

In summary, the conversation discussed a question about the temperature profile in the atmosphere if oxygen, nitrogen, and ozone did not absorb UV radiation. The temperature at the surface would likely increase, but the temperatures at the Tropopause, Stratopause, and Mesopause regions were uncertain. The conversation also included some general tips for posting on the platform and addressed the possibility of the question being based on an unrealistic hypothesis.
  • #1
nicbod
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Hi everyone!

I have some trouble figuring out the following question:

If oxygen, nitrogen and ozone did not absorb UV radiation, what would you expect the temperature profile in the atmosphere to look like between the surface and top of the atmosphere? Specify the temperatures at Tropopause, Stratopause and Mesopause.

My guess would be that the surface would become hotter and the top (Thermopause) would stay the same, however, I am not sure about the rest.

I would appreciate any help!
 
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  • #2
Hello nicbod, :welcome:

To begin with, some PF tips:

The template -- using it is mandatory in homework fora -- should not be deleted and completed in all points:

Homework Statement


Nice exercise.

Homework Equations


This in particular is missing in your post -- what influences this temperature profile in the various height regions ?

The Attempt at a Solution


Guessing doesn't count. PF is a scientific platform
 
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  • #3
nicbod said:
If oxygen, nitrogen and ozone did not absorb UV radiation ...
Then the laws of physics would not apply, so ANY question based on that hypothesis amounts to "if the laws of physics did not apply, what would the laws of physics say about <insert nonsense of your choice>".

If, on the other hand, you mean, literally, what your subject line asks and all the oxygen and nitrogen were removed from the atmosphere, then basically there wouldn't BE any atmosphere, so your question would be moot.
 
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  • #4
Was I wrongfooted in assuming this is homework ?
 

What would happen if ozone, nitrogen and oxygen disappear?

If ozone, nitrogen, and oxygen were to suddenly disappear from our atmosphere, the consequences would be catastrophic. Here are five frequently asked questions about this scenario:

1. What is the role of ozone, nitrogen, and oxygen in our atmosphere?

Ozone, nitrogen, and oxygen are essential components of our atmosphere. Ozone helps protect us from harmful UV radiation, nitrogen is necessary for plant growth, and oxygen is crucial for respiration and the survival of all living organisms.

2. How would the disappearance of these gases affect the Earth's climate?

The absence of these gases would significantly alter the Earth's climate. Without ozone, the Earth's surface would be exposed to dangerous levels of UV radiation, leading to an increase in skin cancer and other health problems. The lack of nitrogen would also impact the growth of plants, which play a crucial role in regulating the Earth's climate. Additionally, the removal of oxygen would result in the suffocation of most living organisms.

3. What would happen to the Earth's ecosystem?

The Earth's ecosystem is dependent on the presence of ozone, nitrogen, and oxygen. The disappearance of these gases would cause a ripple effect throughout the entire ecosystem. Plants would die without nitrogen, leading to a decline in food sources for animals. The loss of oxygen would also result in the extinction of most living organisms, ultimately disrupting the entire food chain.

4. How long would it take for the effects to be felt?

If ozone, nitrogen, and oxygen suddenly disappeared, the effects would be felt almost immediately. The Earth's climate would drastically change, and living organisms would struggle to survive without these essential gases. It would be a matter of days or weeks before the consequences became apparent.

5. Is this scenario possible?

While it is highly unlikely for ozone, nitrogen, and oxygen to disappear completely from our atmosphere, there are certain human activities that can deplete these gases. For example, air pollution can damage the ozone layer, and deforestation can reduce the amount of oxygen and nitrogen in the air. It is essential to take steps to protect and preserve these gases to ensure the health of our planet and all its inhabitants.

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