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NotesESSTopic 6.4
Unit 6 · Atmosphere and Climate Change · Topic 6.4

IB ESS — Stratospheric ozone

Topic 6.4 examines the ozone layer, the causes and consequences of ozone depletion, and the success of the Montreal Protocol. Students study CFCs, UV radiation, and how international cooperation addressed the ozone crisis — often compared with climate change governance in IB ESS exams.

6.4 FlashcardsExam technique guidePractice questions

Key concepts in Stratospheric ozone

Key Idea: Topic 6.4 explains the **ozone layer** (good ozone in the stratosphere vs bad ozone at ground level), why ozone protects life from **UV**, how **CFCs/halons** destroy ozone via catalytic cycles, and why the **Montreal Protocol** is a landmark success.

🟦 Good ozone vs bad ozone

Stratosphere (GOOD): Absorbs UV-B/UV-C. Protects DNA and ecosystems. We want MORE of this.

Troposphere (BAD): Smog pollutant. Respiratory irritant. Damages plants.

🧪 Ozone depletion mechanism

🕳️ The ozone hole (why Antarctica)

🤝 Montreal Protocol (why it worked)

Evaluation move: explain **why ozone was easier** than climate (fewer industries, clearer substitutes, smaller economic reach).

✅ Exam Checklist

What you'll learn in Topic 6.4

  • 6.4.1 The ozone layer
  • 6.4.2 Ozone depletion
  • 6.4.3 The Montreal Protocol

Exam relevance

ESS is assessed through Paper 1 (case study) and Paper 2 (short answer & structured questions). Concepts from this topic may appear in either paper, often combined with data analysis or real-world examples.

Suggested study order: Read the notes for each sub-topic below → test yourself with flashcards → attempt practice questions → review exam technique.

Study resources — 6.4 Stratospheric ozone

6.4.1

The ozone layer

NotesFlashcards
6.4.2

Ozone depletion

NotesFlashcards
6.4.3

The Montreal Protocol

NotesFlashcards

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Topic 6.4 Stratospheric ozone forms a core part of Unit 6: Atmosphere and Climate Change in IB ESS. Mastering these concepts will strengthen your understanding of connected topics across the syllabus and prepare you for exam questions that require analysis, evaluation, and real-world application.

Frequently asked questions

What does Topic 6.4 Stratospheric ozone cover in IB ESS?
Topic 6.4 covers stratospheric ozone as part of the IB ESS syllabus. Students learn key concepts, definitions, and real-world examples that are tested in Paper 1 and Paper 2 exams.
How should I revise Stratospheric ozone for IB ESS exams?
Start by reading the micro-topic notes to understand each concept, then use flashcards to memorise key terms. Practise exam-style questions to apply your knowledge under timed conditions and review the marking criteria.
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