What do you understand by ozone depletion?

Explanation

### Step-by-Step Text Solution:

1. **Definition of Ozone**: Ozone is a gas composed of three oxygen atoms (O3) and is primarily found in the stratosphere, which is a layer of the Earth's atmosphere situated above the troposphere.

2. **Role of Ozone**: Ozone plays a critical role in protecting life on Earth by filtering out harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Excessive UV radiation can lead to serious health issues, including skin cancer and cataracts.

3. **Understanding Ozone Depletion**: Ozone depletion refers to the reduction or destruction of ozone in the stratosphere. This phenomenon results in a thinner ozone layer, which compromises its ability to filter UV radiation effectively.

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