human
Can you explain how the ozone layer works?
assistant
The ozone layer is a protective layer in the atmosphere that absorbs harmful UV radiation from the sun. It is made up of three main components: Ozone, nitrogen oxides and methane. Ozone is created when oxygen molecules are split by ultraviolet light from the sun. Nitrogen oxides are produced by chemical reactions between nitrogen and oxygen in the air. Methane is released naturally by plants and animals, as well as through human activities such as burning fossil fuels. Together, these three components form a shield around the Earth which helps protect life on our planet from the damaging effects of ultraviolet radiation.