Which layer of the atmosphere contains the highest concentration of ozone?

The stratosphere contains the highest concentration of ozone in the Earth's atmosphere. This layer extends from about 10 to 50 kilometers above the Earth's surface and is characterized by a stable temperature profile, with temperatures gradually increasing with altitude due to the absorption of ultraviolet (UV) radiation by ozone.

Ozone plays a crucial role in protecting life on Earth by absorbing the majority of the Sun's harmful UV radiation. This layer, often referred to as the ozone layer, is vital for shielding the Earth's surface from increased levels of UV radiation, which can lead to adverse health effects and environmental issues.

In contrast, the other layers of the atmosphere, such as the troposphere, mesosphere, and exosphere, have significantly lower concentrations of ozone. The troposphere, which is the layer closest to the Earth's surface, primarily contains gases that are involved in weather and climate, and ozone here is considered a pollutant at ground level. The mesosphere, situated above the stratosphere, does not have significant ozone concentrations, and the exosphere, being the outermost layer, comprises extremely thin air, mainly consisting of hydrogen and helium, with negligible amounts of ozone.