Stratospheric ozone is a layer of ozone (O₃) located in the stratosphere, approximately 10 to 30 miles above the Earth's surface. This layer plays a crucial role in protecting life on Earth by absorbing the majority of the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Without this protective layer, increased UV exposure could lead to higher rates of skin cancer and other health issues. The formation of stratospheric ozone occurs through a natural process involving solar radiation and oxygen molecules. When UV light strikes oxygen (O₂) molecules, it splits them into individual oxygen atoms. These atoms can then react with other oxygen molecules to form ozone. Human activities, such as the release of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), have threatened this vital layer, leading to international efforts like the Montreal Protocol to reduce ozone-depleting substances.