An atmospheric layer of the earth which extends from about six miles up to about 30 miles up. It contains a high concentration of ozone (Surprise, surprise!) and absorbs much of the ultraviolet radiation directed at the earth; it also prevents some of the planet's heat loss. It is also known as the ozonosphere.

There is currently a large hole in the ozone layer over Antarctica. It is generally acknowledged to have been caused by air pollutants such as fluorocarbons. It is also generally believed to be a factor in global warming. After laws were passed in multiple countries regulating ozone-depleting substances, like aerosol sprays that contain chlorofluorocarbons (or CFCs), depletion of the ozone layer has dramatically slowed. It's one of the few real wins the environmental movement has enjoyed, but everyone agrees it was a damn good thing.

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